With Sir Alex Ferguson yesterday having predictably expressed his dislike for the Champions League Play-Off idea today, Radio 5 Live’s Mike Ingham has done likewise.
His argument is framed around today’s mouthwatering Manchester City v Liverpool match and how, if 4th to 7th were “in the pot for the Champions League” – which of course they wouldn’t be – this game would be meaningless.
Ingham seems to forget that this is the first time, probably ever, that a match between 4th and 5th actually has any meaning at all. If Manchester City continue spending money at their current rate, it will probably be the last time, too.
The myopia of managers is perfectly understandable, but for a commentator and ‘pundit’ to be against increased competition and challenging of a patently damaging oligopoly is baffling.
A system that would allow that challenge to come not just from oil-fueled super-spending but from the more responsible clubs who build quality in line with their means must surely be embraced.
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The game ended 0-0 with the fewest shots on goal registered during any game this season.