Liverpool have decided not to enter the much-maligned InterToto Cup in a bid to qualify for Europe next season.

The Merseysiders were not among the seven teams confirmed as interested in the summer tournament by the English Football Association's 5 p.m. deadline yesterday.

Instead, the FA will tell UEFA that Aston Villa and West Ham's names have been added to those of Leicester, Middlesbrough, Wimbledon, Southampton and Nottingham Forest who all expressed an interest in January.

Southampton and Forest will not qualify because only teams in the top 12 are considered.

Scotland captain Gary McAllister has announced his retirement from international football. The 34-year-old midfielder, capped 57 times by his country, blamed the reaction of Scottish fans to his performance against the Czech Republic last week for his decision.