The InterToto Cup is not only a back-door into the UEFA Cup - so long as we qualify of course - but it also boosts United's hopes of progressing to Wrembley through the Carling Cup.
The first round Carling Cup draw was made today (with Sunderland in the pot and a mouthwatering tie against Bury!), but Newcastle United are exempt until the third round because, by playing in the InterToto Cup, they are deemed to be participating in Europe next season.