Newcastle cup victory would add Uefa place

Newcastle United will win an extra place in Europe for a Premiership side next season if they win the Uefa Cup.

Sir Bobby Robson's side can expect the support of the likes of Aston Villa, Charlton Athletic, Fulham and Birmingham City as they try to lift the trophy because the sport's European ruling body, Uefa, have confirmed that Newcastle would create another space for an English club if they went in as holders - and also failed to qualify for the Champions' League.

A Uefa spokesman said: "Newcastle would go into the competition as holders, but only if they are not in the Champions' League. If Newcastle win the Uefa Cup there would be an extra place for an English team through the Premier League."

Millwall and Middlesbrough have already gained Uefa Cup places for next season through cup competitions, but now a side as low as sixth could qualify for the event.