The Premier League have awarded all of the live matches formerly held by Setanta to ESPN, the Disney-owned broadcaster.

ESPN have not only been awarded the two packages of 46 live games for next season, but in a surprise move by the Premier League also Setanta's package of 23 matches per season for the 2010-13 period.

Richard Scudamore, the Premier League chief executive, said: "The Premier League is extremely pleased to have added ESPN as a UK rights holder.

"They have a formidable worldwide reputation and experience in sports and I am sure we will enjoy a long and fruitful relationship with them.

"I would like to thank ESPN, as well as all the other broadcasters who submitted bids, for their professionalism and effort in engaging in our sales process at such short notice.

"The timescale of our process was tight to say the least, and it is to the great credit of ESPN that they committed themselves to adding Barclays Premier League football to their already impressive portfolio of sports rights.

"The speed at which we have been able to conclude this deal means that the preparations for next season will be able to continue without interruption and fans and clubs will have certainty over the broadcasting of Barclays Premier League matches for the next four seasons."

Russell Wolff, executive vice president and managing director of ESPN International, said: "Premier League football is one of the world's most sought-after sports properties. We are very excited to be working with the Premier League and expanding our businesses in the UK.

"This move demonstrates our commitment to British sports fans and our ongoing commitment to delivering football to fans around the world across a variety of media."