CARE ABOUT CARABAO
THE elite Premier League clubs are being encouraged to take the new League Cup seriously.
It has been rebranded the Carabao Cup – and Emmanuel Petit believes it should command the attention of the top clubs, who have often regarded it as a nuisance.
“It could well be a route to the Champions League and that is why it should be regarded as an important competition,” said the former Arsenal and Chelsea midfield star.
“The winners go into the Europa League and, as Manchester United proved, that can be a competition of immense value – in many ways.
“United won it and are now playing Champions League football.
“That is not only good for the players, but also the fans. And it will help when signing players.
“Also, you don’t play as many matches as in the FA Cup, so there is every reason to try to win it. It is an attractive proposition for all clubs.”
Petit also feels that the EFL – the parent organisation of the League Cup – can play a major part in developing young talent at Premier League clubs. England have won the World Under-20 Cup and also the prestigious Toulon tournament already this summer.
The Under-21s have embarked on the UEFA finals. But the risk is that the young talents will be underused.
“That is why the Championship can be so important,” said Petit.
“The loan system can be extremely valuable to the young players. Yes, they can go back to academy football.
“But they will learn more if they go on loan to an EFL club – it will help them mature as players.”