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Welsh Football awaits decision on allowing EFL clubs to enter re-vamped Welsh League Cup

The Football Association of Wales has reiterated it's plans to re-introduce the four Welsh based EFL sides back into competition, for a chance to qualify for Europe.

The plans were first set out last year and involved Cardiff City, Newport County, Swansea City and Wrexham being allowed to compete in the Welsh League Cup, with the winner earning a place in the Europa Conference League.

The proposal is meant to benefit everyone involved. The obvious draw for the EFL sides is a much easier route to European football, and they would have to resign their right to qualify for European competition through English League or cup spots.

The 12 teams in the JD Cymru Premier have voted unanimously in favour with the hope that playing the more established EFL sides can lead to a boost in their own profiles, and there are also revenue sharing plans in place.

For the FAW, assuming the EFL sides can compete to a higher level in Europe and reach the latter stages there's a chance that their Uefa coefficient can improve and lead to more places being allocated in the future, growing the game in Wales.

Speaking on the FAW website, Chief Executive Noel Mooney said: “This will be a gamechanger for the development of the game as we work to unlock the full potential of Welsh football.  

“It will unite Welsh football, improve the game at all levels, and deliver meaningful societal benefits across Wales making our clubs and communities more sustainable. 

“It will generate significant additional revenue through a revamped Welsh League Cup competition with expanded participation of the four highest ranked Welsh clubs that participate in the English football pyramid. This will be distributed throughout the JD Cymru Premier, Genero Adran Premier and grassroots facilities across the country. 

“It also represents the spirit of collaboration and cooperation among football associations across the United Kingdom ahead of the home nations’ joint co-hosting EURO 2028.”

The decision however ultimately rests with the English FA, who must give their approval for the EFL sides to compete whilst remaining in English competition.

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