It does not surprise me as I had a chat with a scouse mate in the early 90's about the effect of imported players to the EPL. We agreed that it would have a plus side to the league but would be detrimental to English football.
This is in my opinion what has happened.
Because English football was really strong before the early 90s? LOL
I especially loved England's run in the 70s when they failed to qualify for four consecutive tournaments. Damn foreigners...