Liverpool FC Forum

by **paul9619** » Mon May 09, 2005 4:28 pm

Reading this put a smile to my face. I think UEFA will grant us a place if we win which is good news. I think they are holding out at the moment just to see if we actually do win the champions league.

"Lennart Johansson has backed Liverpool's bid to defend the UEFA Champions League if they lift the trophy in Istanbul later this month.
The Uefa president has told Sky Sports News that he supports the Merseysiders' cause but stressed the final decision rests with The Football Association and it is their responsibility to submit a formal proposal.
Of course, nothing can be done until the outcome of the final with Milan is known and at least Everton know there is no question of any repeat of the situation in Spain some years ago when Real Madrid usurped Real Zaragoza despite finishing below them in the table.
"Let's deal with it when we know the facts after the final of the Champions League," explained Johansson. "And then see to it that we are crystal clear that the champion must always be given its opportunity to defend the title.
"That we see to it in the future that we have rules and regulations that are understandable from the very beginning.
"In the view of the reactions that came now, I personally, on one hand, think that someone has qualified under the present regulations for the next Champions League and, on the other hand, I understand the champions like to defend its title.
"If the association (FA) would like to do so, if they are taking contact with us, they should make a proposal that would mean extending the number of teams from England in the Champions League next time from four to five."
Although accepting Liverpool's feelings on the subject, Johansson is adamant that everything must be done through the proper channels.
"They cannot just explain their feelings," he added. "They must go to other things if they feel this would be correct.
"They should sit down and write a letter to the Uefa executive committee with a request to extend the number of teams from England from four to five."
Meanwhile, Liverpool will wear red in the final with Milan changing to their white "

by **JBG** » Mon May 09, 2005 4:46 pm

Also see

http://skysports.planetfootball.com/list.as....ll_Home

by **Poolinc.** » Mon May 09, 2005 5:43 pm

Competition loses a bit of credibility if the Champions aren't defending their title!!

by **7_Kewell** » Mon May 09, 2005 6:23 pm

it would seem that the sponsors want the European Champions to defend their title.....all to do with money and i guess that when you have them by the balls their heads will eventually follow!

by **zarababe** » Mon May 09, 2005 7:44 pm

.. credit to Lennart for coming out with this now.. though the rules must be looked at afresh... now for the FA.. when we win.. that letter to Mr. Johansson better be winging it's way to his office.. by courier the next hour.. or better still give it to Stevie to hand it to him when he receives the coveted trophy for keeps ..

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