[JohnW]

Although I have to agree that it is unfortunate that this happened when two Northern clubs were involved I have to agree with the ruling itself. I have never understood why in international competition the holders of the title are given automatic entrance to the next competition. After all, we in England have been running the FA cup longer than any other football knockout competition in the world and the previous year's winners have to qualify, like everyone else, if they wish to retain it. Why should the European cups be any different? So I think the new rule is better. However, it is a pity that things have worked out the way they have for Liverpool, but the powers that be had to pick a year to make the change and this happened to be it.