Such an alliance already has plenty of fans.

ECONOMIST: The race begins

Whereas Stoke's success has brokered a a fragile alliance between Pulis and the club's fans, Johnson is extremely popular at Ashton Gate.

BBC: Championship chargers

This alliance of two of the most trusted brands in sports will become the daily habit of fans looking for an all-star lineup of digital and on-air experiences.

ENGADGET: NBC Sports and Yahoo Sports cut a deal to fuse internet, TV coverage