The four football associations from Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland have agreed in principle to a new tournament. It would consist of home and away games every second year like the 6 nations rugby format. The group league tournament would allow all 4 associations to play more competitive style matches instead of meaningless friendlies.
The agreement may have been resolved when all four asociations met up in South Africa for the draw for the World Cup. None of the teams will meet in the competition which made the decision easier. It is understood that the league will start off in 2009 but could be as soon as summer 2008. They have signed up for 3 tournaments over the next 2 years.