UEFA Cup diversity thriving

UEFA General Secretary David Taylor highlighted the "unique character" of the UEFA Cup as he and compatriot Denis Law, the official ambassador for this season's final in Manchester, conducted the draw for the remaining rounds of the competition.

'Colourful mix'
Seven countries will be represented in the last eight of the UEFA Cup, up from five 12 months ago, and Mr Taylor believes the cross-continental competitiveness demonstrates that the tournament is in rude health. "As in previous years this season's UEFA Cup has given us some thrilling matches, and as we head towards the latter stages and indeed the final in the city of Manchester on Wednesday 14 May, we have many different countries represented by the clubs involved. It is exactly this diverse and colourful mix of clubs and nationalities that gives the UEFA Cup its own unique and special character.

'Unique feeling'
"It allows the clubs that participate to experience the real feeling of a European adventure as they challenge for true European glory," Mr Taylor continued. "For many of the clubs taking part, the UEFA Cup can be challenging and tough, but at the same time it's a great experience for players and coaches who are able to test themselves in European competition. For players, coaches and indeed fans, it's an ideal complement to the rigours of domestic football."

Evolution
The tournament's success is no cause for complacency, however, and Mr Taylor mapped out its planned evolution over the coming seasons. "Just as with the UEFA Champions League, there will be changes to the UEFA Cup from the 2009/10 season to continue to improve its appeal. This will involve a full group stage of home and away matches, making the group standings easier to follow for fans and a better programming proposition for television. We're convinced that these changes will help to further promote this as one of the key competitions in world and European club football."