MANCHESTER United chairman and chief executive Martin Edwards yesterday admitted that a European league is unlikely to become a reality for some time.

The European Cup Champions League will be expanded next season to include 24 teams rather than 16, playing in six groups of four.

However, Edwards said UEFA's decision to revise the Champions League format indicated a Euro super division was not in the offing.

"I personally believe that a European super league is some way off ... I don't see it as an immediate thing," Edwards said.

Meanwhile, Edwards has admitted he would like to see the 20 club Premiership trimmed to 18, easing the end of season fixture congestion.

Manager Alex Ferguson has already asked for an extension to this season's league programme, a call which has drawn both support and criticism from fellow top flight bosses.

Edwards added: "We would prefer an 18 club Premier League. It would ease our programme especially if we're going to be involved in Europe."