Fair Play loophole could see Suarez play for Liverpool in Europa League
By Joe Pearce
Thursday 25 April 2013
The Daily Mail have revealed how Luis Suarez could return to competitive action for Liverpool before the end of his 10-match ban, should his team somewhat ironically earn a place in next year’s Europa League thanks to UEFA’s Fair Play League.
The fair play system, which was introduced in 1995, works by the top ranking club from each of the top three fairest European leagues being offered a place in the competition. Only cards issued during games are taken into account with retrospective action from governing bodies ignored, so Suarez’s ban has not affected Liverpool’s ranking.
Liverpool are in second place in England’s fair play league, having received just 49 yellow cards, and two reds, which were given to Daniel Agger and Jonjo Shelvey. However, as first placed Arsenal look to have already secured a position in one of next years’ European competitions, Liverpool would be offered the place if they do finish in second, and should England make it into the top three fairest nations.
Norway, Sweden and Finland make up the top three of the Fair Play League table at present, with England currently close behind them in fourth.