(Agencies)
Updated: 2007-11-14 15:26

BRUSSELS - A bitter legal battle between the G14 and soccer's governing bodies is likely to be solved within months, the group representing 18 of Europe's most powerful clubs said on Tuesday.

"We (G14) are more positive than ever...we see a conclusion to the matters in the next few weeks or maybe months," G14 vice-president Ferran Soriano of Barcelona told reporters after a G14 meeting in Brussels.

The group, which includes clubs such as Manchester United, Real Madrid and AC Milan, is at odds with world ruling body FIFA and European body UEFA over issues such as the release of players for international duty and the international calendar.

A row over compensation for players injured while playing for their countries has led to two court cases, one of which is pending at the European Court of Justice - Europe's highest court.

Asked if G14 was planning to end its court actions, G14 president Jean-Michel Aulas told Reuters: "We started these legal cases as G14 to allow us to try and force open the door, that door is now ajar.

"Hopefully, if this door to negotiations remains open, then these legal cases can come to an end," the Olympique Lyon president said.

The French champions are at the centre of a case against FIFA over compensation for injured international players.

FIFA and UEFA have failed to recognise or engage with the G14, saying the lobby group is elitist and does not represent the majority of clubs in Europe.

However, G14 could be replaced with a larger group of clubs next year in a bid to bridge the gap between soccer chiefs and the clubs.

Its formation was due to be discussed on Wednesday, but this meeting has been postponed until January, pending further talks with UEFA.

"The UEFA input is vital," Soriano said.

"We have postponed the meeting following talks with UEFA. The goal is to create a new club group that everyone, including UEFA and public administrations, can recognise as the only organisation representing the clubs."