NFL chief Parsons: 'London matchup is a huge game despite losing records'

NFL senior vice president of international relations Chris Parsons has said that having two winless teams playing at Wembley Stadium this Sunday is not a problem.

The weekend clash between the Minnesota Vikings and the Pittsburgh Steelers is a crucial game even at this early stage, with the loser unlikely to have any chance of making the playoffs.

Parsons told USA Today: "We've never had a game as early as week four before, and that both teams are coming in with 0-3 records makes the game even more critical. It's a huge game on Sunday for both teams.

"Sometimes, late in the season, teams have sustained their losing record and attitude and therefore have less appeal. But when you're 0-3, you've still got a chance, and whoever wins this game is going to be very much alive."

The Vikings team arrived in London on Tuesday to participate in some scheduled media activities, while the Steelers will arrive on Friday, just 48 hours before the game.