ITV have retained the rights to show midweek Champions League matches, the broadcaster announced.

The three-year deal covers the 2009-10, 2010-11 and 2011-12 seasons.

From August next year, ITV will broadcast the first pick of Wednesday night games throughout the tournament, including the final and European Super Cup final - 18 live games in total - as well as highlights of all games. The deal includes both television and new media.

Satellite broadcaster BSkyB secured the majority of live football rights in a deal announced on Tuesday.

But ITV had to battle it out with rival free-to-air broadcaster the BBC for the remaining rights.

ITV has held Champions League rights since the tournament's inception in 1992.

Michael Grade, ITV executive chairman, said: "I'm thrilled that ITV is now the definitive home for all premium free-to-air football in this country.

"This is good news for ITV's shareholders, advertisers and of course our viewers.

"With Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United all through to the quarter-final stage this year, British representation in Europe has never been stronger."

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