Attacking football, fair play and respect – three elements that are seen by UEFA as essential in making its blue-riband competitions an enticing prospect for football enthusiasts across the world.

EURO spirit
At today's draw ceremony for the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round in Nyon, Switzerland, UEFA General Secretary David Taylor urged clubs to carry the spirit that prevailed at the recent UEFA EURO 2008™ final into the coming season's club competitions. "We have not long ago come back from a fantastic European Football Championship, UEFA EURO 2008™ in Austria and Switzerland," said Mr Taylor. "On the footballing side, we saw some really great games and action providing excitement, goals, and drama – everything you need for a great football tournament. And what was also pleasing was the demonstration of the benefits of attacking football.

Respect message
"Importantly, it also showed us that the spirit of fair play and respect, both between and towards fans, players and officials is truly possible in our game, even at the highest level," he added. "So if there is one message that I would like you to take away from today and carry into your next round matches it is this – respect. It is crucial if our game is to continue to prosper both on and off the pitch."