ESPN has been awarded two packages of rights containing a total of 46 matches that were available for season 2009/10. These rights are for the same matches that ESPN will broadcast in the UK.

The other four packages for season 2009/10, containing 92 matches, remain under contract with BSkyB.

extremely pleased

Premier League Chief Executive, Richard Scudamore, said: "The Premier League is extremely pleased that ESPN has invested in our broadcast rights for the Republic of Ireland.

"They have a formidable worldwide reputation and we have great confidence in their ability to provide football fans with first rate coverage and programming."

The auction for Premier League broadcast rights in the Republic of Ireland for live Saturday 3pm fixtures in season 2009/10 will take place in the coming weeks. The auction process for seasons 2010/11 to 2012/13 will take place later this year.