BRUSSELS - A rift between soccer authorities and Europe's top clubs over compensation for players injured while playing for their countries should be resolved before Euro 2008, the head of the G14 said last week.

BRUSSELS - A rift between soccer authorities and Europe's top clubs over compensation for players injured while playing for their countries should be resolved before Euro 2008, the head of the G14 said last week.

The G14, representing 18 of Europe's most powerful clubs, and world governing body Fifa, are at odds over a number of issues, including two court cases.

A case against Fifa by Belgian first division club Charleroi and the G14 over a player injured on international duty has been referred to the European court of justice. A similar case involving Olympique Lyon of France is pending.

Many politicians and some within the game believe the outcome could threaten the future of major competitions such as the World Cup and European Championship.

"We are convinced that there will be a solution to cover the injury risks for players and on compensation before Euro 2008," G14 general manager Thomas Kurth said.

"Of course there needs to be good will from all sides, but we are very optimistic."

Earlier this week Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein, who chairs the G-14 reiterated his view that a deal could be agreed between both sides in the near future.

Last week a Fifa task force headed by Barcelona president Joan Laporta said it was close to providing proposals on the issue. - Reuters