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Liverpool gets OK to defend soccer title
Liverpool will be allowed to defend its Champions League title, but will have
to begin play in the first qualifying round.
European soccer's governing body announced the decision on Friday after the 14-member executive committee agreed to make an exception for the five-time European champions. Liverpool, which beat AC Milan on penalty kicks in the final in Istanbul last month, had failed to earn an automatic spot in next season's tournament. "We welcome the decision to allow us in the competition next season," Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry said. "We wish to express our thanks to all those who supported us and campaigned on our behalf." Under UEFA's rules, the champion didn't automatically qualify. The top four teams in England's Premier League qualify, and Liverpool finished fifth. Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United and Everton qualified automatically. UEFA decided Friday that, from now on, the champion will have the right to defend the title. "They (the executive committee) felt it was the best and wisest, and I felt that way too," UEFA spokesman William Gaillard said. "The rules said that no association could have five clubs in the Champions League. The decision that has been taken today is exceptional." If the situation occurs again, the Champions League winner would take the place of the final qualifier from its domestic league. Had the rule been in force this season, Liverpool's archrival Everton, which finished fourth in the Premier League, would have had to drop out. "In the upcoming season, England will be the only national association ever, and for the last time, that will be allowed to have five clubs," Gaillard said. Liverpool will enter the qualifying rounds, and will have to play six games to reach the first round. The draw will take place June 24, with the first qualifying round scheduled for July 12-13 and July 19-20, the second for July 26-27 and Aug. 2-3, and the third for Aug. 9-10 and Aug. 23-24. Liverpool will be forced to shift or cancel exhibition games in Japan on July 27 and 30. Former Liverpool captain and manager Phil Thompson said the ruling was a "great decision for football." "We've had the right things in our hearts and they've had the right things in their minds," he said. The response from fans wasn't as positive. "To be told they have to start in the first qualifier is wrong and a real kick in the teeth," said Les Lawson, spokesman for the Liverpool International Supporters Club. "It is a disgrace."
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