[lfc-news] Premier clubs back the Reds - Echo

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Liverpool Echo, 1 June 2005
Premier clubs back the Reds
By Mike Hornby, Liverpool Echo

LIVERPOOL FC's biggest rivals have rallied to their Champions League cause.

Everton and Manchester United have called on Uefa to change the rules
and allow the European cup holders to defend their crown.

They were joined by Arsenal and Chelsea in demanding the Reds be granted
a spot in next season's competition despite their fifth-place finish in
the Premiership.

Thousands of ECHO readers have sent messages of support to our Let It Be
campaign and more Liverpool greats have added their voices to the debate.

The messages will be given to Uefa as they prepare to make the decision.

Everton director of communications Ian Ross said: "We have said all
along that the defending champions of Uefa's flagship competition should
always be allowed to defend their title."

Chelsea spokesman Simon Greenberg said: " We want to see as many English
clubs playing in Europe as possible.

"The four places should go to the top four clubs in the Premiership, but
the winner should also be allowed to defend the trophy, and an extra
place should be made available."

Manchester United press chief Phil Townsend said they also supported the
Premier League's position.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is said to have sympathy with Liverpool's plight.

Club legends also want current stars such as Jamie Carragher and Steven
Gerrard to be able to defend their European crown.

Record- breaking goalscorer John Aldridge said: "Liverpool winning the
Champions League after finishing outside the bottom four has made it a
bit messy for Uefa.

"But given the manner in which they won the trophy, the reigning
champions should be in the competition next year. Rules can be changed,
and should be if it makes the competition better."

Sammy Lee, senior England coach and former Liverpool midfielder said:
"All champions should be allowed to defend their title. Uefa must
realise that this rule has got to change, or the competition will become
a laughing stock."

Ex-star Tommy Smith added: "It's stupid. Uefa makes the rules and it can
also break them. After the most exciting European Cup final ever, it is
Liverpool's right to defend their hard-earned title."

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