SKY HAVE banned BBC radio commentary on England's summer tournament in France - clearing the way for pay-per-view television.

The satellite giants have bought exclusive rights to the four-cornered tournament, also involving World Cup hosts France, Italy and Brazil, and have barred the BBC and London's Capital radio from providing a commentary on the three England games.

The decision has outraged the BBC, who cannot remember the last time they were denied access to a major international. And the FA have also put pressure on Sky to buck down over radio rights.

Sky have so far refused to comment on the row, but speculation is strengthening that they plan to use this tournament to add soccer to boxing as the sports which subscribers must pay extra to watch.

. Stuart Pearce ended his managerial career after just five months yesterday to focus on his role as a player with Nottingham Forest and England. The 35-year-old full back will stand down after Sunday's final game of the season against Newcastle, leaving Dave Bassett, who has been general manager since March, to take control.