Rangers vice-chairman John Bennett is “keen to explore” the possibility of Scottish clubs taking part in the EFL Cup in the future and is confident such a change would bring more attention to England’s much-maligned second domestic cup.
While England’s ‘Top Six’ ended up with a rap on the knuckles after their ill-fated attempt at forming a European Super League blew up in their face, Bennett thinks more cross-border competition would be a welcome change for fans and broadcasters alike.
The Scottish Challenge Cup has piloted similar in recent seasons with clubs from all five countries of the British Isles involved over the last few years.
The Rangers board member believes that having the top four from Scotland join the competition would be a move in the right direction – and “forecast” that the Light Blues would sell out any away allocations in the competition with “no problem.”
“I think the Carabao Cup would be very interesting for the Old Firm to be invited too, but also to participate because I think of the colour, the fans, the excitement it would bring,” Bennett told the Price of Football podcast.
“And I actually think the attraction it would bring to broadcasters.
“I’m not sure it’s limited to the Old Firm. Could it be an invitation that’s extended to, say, the top four clubs in any given season in the Scottish Premiership?
“I think that’s something we should explore, I’m keen to explore and I think it’s something the English Football League should be keen to explore.
“Forecasting is always a dangerous game but I’ll give you this forecast – we would sell out our away allocation, no problem.”
A return to English cups for Rangers?
While any changes to the League Cup would be a while away, it wouldn’t be the first time Rangers have played in English Cup competitions.
The Light Blues have entered the FA Cup twice before, reaching the semi-finals in 1886/87 having withdrawn the season before without kicking a ball in anger.
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