MUMBAI: Absolute Radio has acquired commentary rights to England and Ireland matches and the knockout stages of the Euro 2012 football championship.

Absolute will distribute its coverage via FM for the first time in London and the south east, along with its usual digital radio, multiplatform and nationwide AM network. The radio station claims it will be the first to broadcast live games from the tournament on FM.

Former Arsenal and England striker Ian Wright will present a special Euro 2012 programme along with co-host Ian Stone from 8 June-1 July at 5pm. The show titled ‘Rock ‘N’ Roll Football’, will feature special guests, music and a listener phone-in, allowing people to discuss the latest action of the games.

Absolute Radio head of presentation Paul Sylvester said, “Broadcasting England and Ireland UEFA EURO 2012 matches across the network with the introduction of FM, will take Rock ‘N’ Roll football to new heights this summer. Wright’s been there, he’s done it and he knows what the players will be going through. He’ll have an amazing insight and will give his views in his brilliantly unique way.”

TalkSPORT and BBC Radio 5 live also possess the commentary rights deal to broadcast full coverage of all 31 matches at the Euro 2012 tournament, but only on medium wave (MW).