Birmingham granted Europe licence

League Cup winners Birmingham City will be allowed to take part in the Europa League next season after being granted a licence by UEFA.

There was mounting speculation that Birmingham, who beat Arsenal 2-1 in the final on February 27, would not be able to compete in continental competition next season due to the club’s allegedly precarious financial situation.

But an injection of funds from owner Carson Yeung has reportedly satisfied the concerns of European football’s governing body UEFA.

“This means we can all focus on what are really exciting times for the club,” acting chairman Peter Pannu said.

“Then we can all look forward to competing in the Europa League alongside some of the continent’s finest clubs.”

“Being granted the licence – which we were always confident of achieving – will put to rest once and for all some of the scaremongering that has surrounded the club.”