UNITED DEFINITELY IN THE CL

Last updated : 10 May 2006 By Editor

From the Sun:

United have been told their automatic place in next season's Champions League group stages is safe — even if Arsenal become European champions next week.

United secured runners-up spot in the Premiership — and England's second guaranteed passport into the group stages — by beating Charlton 4-0 at Old Trafford on Sunday.

But despite finishing fourth, Arsenal will automatically become top seeds and go straight into next season's lucrative group stages if they beat Barcelona in the Champions League final in Paris next Wednesday

Liverpool were forced to begin the defence of their European title in the qualifiers last season, but UEFA have since changed the rules to allow the holders to go straight into the group stages.

An FA spokesman said: “Chelsea and Manchester United will represent England in the Champions League group stages next season.

“Should Arsenal win the Champions League, they will also go into the group stages — but not at the expense of Manchester United.

“Having finished fourth in the Premiership, Arsenal will play in the final qualifying round if they do not become European champions this season