Cup winners offered new Euro plan

Uefa may introduce a play-off system between the cup holders in each of Europe's domestic leagues, with a Champions League place as the prize.

Under proposals being discussed, the winners of each country's main knockout competition would feature.

Uefa spokesman William Gaillard said: "We want to revitalise the cup competitions in each country which have suffered in recent years.

"Giving the cup winners one of these spots is something we will discuss."

Awarding the cup winner one of their country's automatic positions is also being tabled, but is likely to be seen as a step too far.

At present, cup winners qualify for the Uefa Cup.

And Gaillard added: "If the cup winner goes to the Champions League, then that third or fourth-placed team in the league goes to the Uefa Cup. There has to be some reality.

"But to be honest if the same team that finishes first, second or third in the league ends up winning the cup, then the place would go to the next team in the league."