THE Intertoto Cup has suddenly become a great way to get into Europe.

There was a time when clubs used to laugh at a cup that used to get started away back in the middle of May, and have endless qualifying rounds and matches before offering even a sniff of Europe.

But it's been re-vamped and now all clubs like Rovers have to do is win one two-legged game and they're in the UEFA Cup.

This week's opponents, Newcastle, are a perfect example of the benefits. They entered the Intertoto Cup and ended up going further in Europe than Rovers, who qualified through the league.

It's something we can't afford to turn our noses up at, especially after our experiences on the continent this year.

Europe is where we want to be playing. All the supporters and the players enjoyed it this season, although we didn't do as well as I thought we would.

We've tasted it now though, and we want more.

It gives the players an experience which they enjoy and it also helps to attract players to the club.

Europe can be the difference between a player signing for the club or not.

The Intertoto would also be a great chance for Mark Hughes to play some of his squad players and see how they can shape up for next season.

It's a great target for the injured players like Savage, Reid and Ooijer, they can be eased back in against lesser opposition in a competitive environment.

Of course, because of the extra games played in Europe, it's important that teams taking part have a squad capable of handling that, with the various injuries and suspensions that can happen, but I think Mark will have that once he has added to his squad this summer.