Welsh clubs playing in England handed major blow to European ambitions – as EFL oppose controversial move to secure places in UEFA competitions

Contentious plans by Welsh clubs in English leagues to gain entry to Europe via the Welsh League Cup have suffered a major setback after failing to win the support of the EFL.

Mail Sport understands that the controversial attempt, which triggered fury at some of the English counterparts, has not gone down well among English clubs.

Indeed, it can be disclosed that, after asking for feedback, the EFL has now written to the FA to outline why the governing body would be within its rights to turn down the move.

It says that should Swansea, Cardiff, Newport and Wrexham be permitted to enter the Welsh League Cup and qualify for European competition, it would trigger a series of issues.

In the first instance, extra revenue generated from playing in Europe would raise integrity issues over the EFL competition and the pyramid itself. It would also wreak havoc with an already-congested fixture programme, impact on player welfare and on centrally generated revenues which support all clubs.

The FA board of directors is due to discuss the matter in the New Year, but the EFL’s bombshell letter may scupper the plans. It is thought to be unlikely that they would push ahead without the support of the rest of the competition.

The EFL has written to the FA to dismiss the matter, arguing that it raises major integrity issues

In an offer that seems to have quickly been seen through, the Welsh sides had vowed to drop the European qualification spot should they win the English League Cup should they be allowed to enter the Welsh version – unless they were in the Premier League.

The likelihood of one of the group triumphing in the Welsh competition on a regular basis is seen as high and an unfair advantage by many.

UEFA approval would also be needed.