English Premier League considering play-off for last UEFA Champions League spot
News has surfaced today that the English Premier League is considering having a play-off for the last UEFA Champions League spot.
Currently the top four teams earn qualification into the competition with the last spot having to go through the qualifying for the group stage. The change would have four teams (would be 4th-7th) in a play-off similar to the promotion play-offs of the Championship, League One, and League Two. The deal could be voted on next month between the clubs but would require a 14-6 majority to be passed.
It also wouldn’t be implemented until at least three years due to already exiting television contracts. Early reports are that most clubs are not in favor of the move and that it could lead to the EPL losing its 4th spot in the Champions League.
What do you think? Is this a good move or would it be a bad decision by the league? Here’s further information on the move as reported by the BBC.
EPL considering Play-off for 4th UCL spot – Full story can be found here – http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/8516372.stm
The Premier League is considering a proposal to introduce a play-off for the fourth Champions League place.
The top four currently enter the tournament but the new idea would mean the teams from fourth to seventh playing in a mini-knockout competition.
Any change would need the agreement of at least 14 of the 20 top flight clubs, but there will be no changes for three years as the next TV deal is in place.
Everton boss David Moyes said the idea “was something worth looking at”.
But the Scot warned against the dangers of making too many changes to the traditional structure of the sport in England.
“I always think your league position is judged over all the games and where you finish is where you finish,” said Moyes, whose side have finished in the seven in five of the last seven seasons.
“So to give a team that finishes three or four places down the table could be a little bit unfair.
“Nevertheless, the Championship play-offs for promotion into the Premier League have worked very well so it might be something worth looking at.
