It emerged last month the Clarets were in line for a place in Europe's second competition despite their relegation from the Premier League because of their good disciplinary record. All the teams ranked above them domestically were already guaranteed a European place next season except Fulham, and victory in the Europa League final over Atletico Madrid this week would see the Cottagers book their spot as well. But Burnley's hopes relied on England holding on to third place in the Fair Play League and publication of the final table revealed they had dropped to seventh. The extra spots will now go to countries from Sweden, Denmark and Finland. Burnley manager Brian Laws had been keen on combining a Championship campaign with European football, saying last week: "We are in a fairly strong position if Fulham win the final. "We are not banking on it but will certainly embrace it with open arms. Our preparations will be altered. If that is the case we will gladly change them."
