Originally Posted by
superfrank
On the subject, I know a few weeks back in Scotland they introduced a new ruling whereby the cup runner-up will not get a European spot if the cup winner has already qualified for Europe. The European place goes to the next spot in the league which, iirc, would be 4th or 5th. It was brought in because of how poorly Gretna, Dundee United and Dunfermline performed in the UEFA Cup.
AFAIK, there isn't something like that over here. Do others think something similar should be brought in? Considering there are only 22 league teams, it is quite possible that a "weak" side can qualify for Europe by finishing runners up. I'm sure the coefficient obsessed would be shivering in their socks at the prospect of Monaghan United taking on Kairat Almaty in the UEFA Cup.
Personally, I feel the runner-up should get the European place. It's some consolation for losing a cup final, which is very tough to take, against a big side.