Lure of Europe growing stronger

Half the Premiership could find themselves in mainstream European competition next season if Middlesbrough go on to collect the UEFA Cup.

Boro tackle Basle in the first leg of their quarter-final tomorrow knowing, unlike Arsenal, victory in the competition will open up an extra European space.

UEFA amended the Champions League qualification rules last summer to prevent any country having five representatives in the tournament, as was the case this year.

It means if the Gunners emulate Liverpool’s achievement last term and win the Champions League but finish outside the Premiership’s top four, the fourth-placed club – currently Tottenham – will drop into the UEFA Cup.

However, if Boro triumph in the secondary European competition England will gain an extra place, even if the Teessiders also win the FA Cup or are beaten by Chelsea or Liverpool in the final.

In addition, England are in line to gain entry into the annual Fair Play draw, which could bring a place in the UEFA Cup first qualifying round, while a record seven teams have expressed an interest in taking part in this summer’s revamped Intertoto Cup.

Previously derided, the Intertoto has suddenly become far more attractive to Premiership clubs who, under the competition’s new format, now only have to win one two-legged tie in July to reach the UEFA Cup second qualifying round the following month.

Unlike previous seasons, only one English club will be allowed to participate - the highest ranked side who have not already qualified for Europe – with the draw due to be made in Nyon on April 10.