Expansion outside of the United States is an idea that's been bandied about by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell for some time now.

Goodell appears to have at least one ally in his efforts to take the game abroad.

Patriots owner Robert Kraft agrees with the push to expand in Europe, saying during today's Patriots workout in London, "I think it could (happen). I really believe it's the right thing to do in the next decade. We have great support here and in Germany."

But Kraft has mixed feelings about playing internationally under the current circumstances. Though he expressed much satisfaction about being chosen to play the Bucs here on Sunday, he made it clear he would not have felt the same if this game were a Patriots home game. This was to be a home game for the Bucs, who now have only seven games this season at Raymond James Stadium.

"I'm not sure our fans would appreciate us giving up a home game," Kraft said. "I know I wouldn't."

-- Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer