Seven clubs in Champions League - Liverpool open up astonishing Manchester United scenario

Manchester United have been offered a boost in their attempts to qualify for the Champions League by their arch rivals Liverpool after victory over Chelsea in the Carabao Cup showpiece. In getting their hands on that trophy, the Reds have opened up an astonishing - if unlikely - scenario by which seven teams could qualify for the competition.

It comes as the Champions League prepares to expand from 32 clubs to 36 next season. As things stand, there may be an extra spot allocated to the Premier League, with Liverpool the catalyst for a further qualification route.

A proposed fifth berth is dependant on moving parts based on the best-performing nations this season - with Italy and Germany the two frontrunners - but England are in a strong position as United and other contenders watch on.

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Based on performances in five of the last six campaigns, the additional slot would have gone to a Premier League side. However, with United and Newcastle being dumped out at the first hurdle in Europe this season, that has had a knock-on impact when it comes to the nation's current ranking.

It could all change once again, though, if domestic clubs go on to pick up European honours.

Beyond that potential fifth berth, the two domestic cup winners - in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup - are booked in for a spot in the Europa League and Europa Conference League respectively. However, with Liverpool expected to finish in the Premier League's top-four, their ECL place would go to a lower-ranked English team.

It's the January transfer window once again, but despite United's indifferent start to the season, it remains to be seen