St Kilda Coach Ross Lyon has outlined how AFL football has flourished and that football is the big winner in the announcement of the record $1.25 billion broadcast deal.

The AFL yesterday announced a new agreement involving the Seven Network, Foxtel and Telstra to broadcast AFL matches between 2012-2016.

The record agreement will see an unprecedented number of live football games each round, with the game set to be shown to more parts of Australia than at any time in the game’s history.

On the back of the new AFL broadcasting deal, Senior Coach Ross Lyon said AFL football will benefit greatly, while also importantly providing fans in rural areas with greater access to the game.

“The greater cut through to outback Australia and our fledgling football states can only help the growth of the game.”

“To take the game to the fans that can’t attend is a massive boost to everyone involved in AFL football, no doubt,” added Lyon.

Lyon also said that with the new billion dollar deal, AFL players should enjoy the right to an increase in salary.

“They put on the game and I think they should see the financial flow back to them,” he said.

He added that he believed the AFL will handle the manner well and all parties would benefit.

“Andrew (Demetriou) and the AFL have got a great reputation for making it win-win for all parties at all times,” he said.

“I think they will come to a winning decision which will see the players get their fair share and I’m sure the health of the game will be looked after,” said Lyon.