Red bus at crossroads

Liverpool have won but may also have lost. The new champions of Europe must wait three weeks before they know whether they can defend their ...

Liverpool have won but may also have lost. The new champions of Europe must wait three weeks before they know whether they can defend their title next season. UEFA rules say that only four English clubs can take part in the Champions League, and the English FA had decided that the top four Premiership teams would represent the country. Here’s a look at how the issue shapes up:

WHAT UEFA SAY

Their executive committee will discuss the issue at their meeting in Manchester on June 17. Their line as of now is that Liverpool can only play if Everton, who finished fourth in the Premiership, drop out — but the matter will be voted on by the 15-man ruling committee

WHAT THE FA SAY

Chief executive Brian Barwick: ‘‘It’s an exceptional situation that follows an exceptional match and which we believe requires an exceptional solution. UEFA have a situation where they are faced with not having their own champions in their own competition which is called the Champions League.’’

THE PRECEDENT

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In the 2000-01 season, Real Madrid defended the trophy they’d won the previous season despite finishing fifth because the Spanish Football Federation decided to use its quota of four by handing them Real Zaragoza’s place

BACKING THE REDS

Eusebio, a winner with Benfica in 1962, is supporting Liverpool’s cause. ‘‘Liverpool have made history and it would be unjust if the champions of the biggest European competition could not defend the title. Some rules must be changed in UEFA and this is one of them.’’

THE UNKINDEST CUT

UEFA rules mean Liverpool’s great crosstown rivals Everton take the final place — or could give up their spot for the Reds

THE ANGELS IN WAITING

Welsh champions TNS have offered to give up their place if Liverpool beat them in a ‘re-qualifier’.

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