United, ’Pool oppose Platini plan

LIVERPOOL and Manchester United have formally declared their opposition to UEFA president Michel Platini’s plans for domestic cup winners to qualify for the Champions League.

The English clubs were the most outspoken opponents to the proposals among the 102 members of the European Club Forum who met in Nyon, Switzerland, today.

There was a general acceptance of Platini’s proposals to secure more places in the group stages of the competition for champions of the smaller leagues in Europe, but opinion was divided over his plan for cup winners.