Back in the early days of the Premiership I campaigned hard to keep the League Cup going.

I remember attending my first monthly meeting of clubs in London as a director of Southampton FC, and as I was one of the new boys, I planned just to sit and listen and take in the atmosphere.

However, one topic changed all that.

The big clubs, as they do in the league, were looking to dominate proceedings - if allowed.

At that particular time one of the topics for discussion was a proposal from UEFA that our domestic League Cup should no longer qualify for Europe.

This was one of their attempts to narrow down the domestic fixture list which in our country is bigger than most.

I soon became aware of people's priorities when the man from Manchester United proposed that we do away with the League Cup, which was quickly seconded by the Arsenal representative.

They made tongue-in-cheek comments like "What use is it anyway?" to be answered by "Well, it's a good opportunity to give the reserves a run-out."

After listening to enough of this, I raised my hand and said something like: "Mr Chairman, I didn't intend to say much on my first visit, but I must point out that the League Cup is indeed still very important to certain clubs, particularly mine at Southampton."

Our supporters had had a taste of Wembley finals in both the cup competitions over the years and why should they be denied another visit?

I went on to point out that the revenue gained from these cup games was vital to us, bearing in mind we had the smallest ground in the league and without any benefits such as hospitality boxes or suites.

There were no extra commercial outlets either - only a corner shop.

I also took the opportunity to point out that the league had been reduced already to 20 teams and that any further attempts to bring the number down should be avoided at all costs.

Fortunately, I was supported by the chairman of one of the big clubs at that time, Everton's Sir Philip Carter, who said: "Lawrie is right. We made a firm decision not to go any lower than 20 teams and we should retain the League Cup as well as the FA Cup."

Thankfully the matter didn't even come to a vote, and UEFA were persuaded to continue with their previous policy of European qualifications.

However, it has not prevented our friends at Old Trafford and Highbury as well as Anfield fielding second teams, particularly in earlier rounds.