How many times have we had this discussion on AIM? Sixth and Seventh DO NOT get a UEFA Cup spot…only if the Carling Cup or the FA Cup finalists aren’t already in an European place do Sixth or Seventh get those places. Just because you think it is automatic because recent history seems to make it out that way, it isn’t the case. Only fifth place is guaranteed an UEFA Cup position along with the League Cup winner and a FA Cup finalist (The runner-up can get into the UEFA Cup if the FA Cup winner is already playing in either the Champions League or UEFA Cup the following season).

Another reality I think people are forgetting about is Portsmouth could finish sixth or seventh, and not get into the UEFA Cup next season if they do not win the FA Cup. Their failure to apply for the Intertoto Cup sees to that.

Everton, Aston Villa, Blackburn Rovers and Manchester City could very well be thankful they applied for the Intertoto Cup. While it would appear that Everton are secure in fifth, that still isn’t the case. Sixth place then still isn’t guaranteed a UEFA Cup place through the UEFA Fair Play Table meaning it appears the race for sixth is the race for the Intertoto Cup.

I am so glad that competition (Intertoto Cup) is going away soon.