David Moyes hits out at proposals that would help ‘Big Six’ sides get into the Champions League by winning the FA Cup… with West Ham boss adamant EVERY side must ‘be treated the same’ – and not judged on their record in Europe
- David Moyes has spoken out on proposals to change Champions League entry
- It has been reported FA Cup winners could get in depending on certain criteria
- The proposals appeared to favour the traditional ‘Big Six’ teams in England
- West Ham boss Moyes wants to see Champions League spots given ‘on merit’
West Ham United manager David Moyes said he does not agree with proposals that would see only ‘Big Six’ clubs who win the FA Cup qualify for the Champions League, and that all teams should receive equal opportunities.
The Telegraph reported on Sunday that FA Cup winners could potentially qualify for the Champions League from 2024 under new rules being considered by UEFA, but only if the clubs have a record of success in European competition.
The report said the proposals will see the two extra places in a new 36-team Champions League awarded on the basis of coefficients – the formula UEFA uses to measure historic success in the competition.
David Moyes does not want to see a change of format for getting into the Champions League
His West Ham side are in the hunt but a new route for FA Cup winners does not appeal to Moyes
‘We talk about being inclusive in football, that means to give all the teams the opportunity to get there,’ Moyes told reporters after Sunday’s 2-1 Premier League win over Everton.
‘If a smaller side won it, we’d expect to be treated the same way,’ he added.
‘Maybe if I was at a top-six regular, would I want that? I don’t think most people see that as the correct format to go. It should be on merit.’
Moyes’ team are sixth in the Premier League on 51 points after 31 matches, three points behind fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur, who have played a game less.
Moyes wants spots in Europe’s top competition to be won on merit, not their European record
They host Lyon in the first leg of the Europa League quarter-finals on Thursday as they target a deep run in Europe’s secondary club competition.
West Ham are not giving up on that top four spot but Moyes is satisfied that their progress is evidenced by them still chasing into April.
‘It could have been a bit cleaner at times but at this stage of the season you’re happy to get the points,’ said Moyes.
‘Being back in the European bracket shows in the main we have had a good season, and we have to keep it up.’
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