League Cup

Origins

The League Cup began its life to general indifference after Alan Hardaker, the Football League's authoritarian secretary, introduced the competition in 1960 as part of the project he called the 'Pattern For Football' at a time when attendances and interest in the game was dwindling.

The problem was that the clubs, anticipating extra income, wanted the competition but not the rest of Hardaker's project which included an increase to 100 clubs in five 20-team divisions and a four up / four down promotion and relegation system.

Entry was not compulsory and a number of leading clubs chose not to take part during the first 11 seasons of the competition's existence.

The trophy

The original League Cup trophy was commissioned and paid for by the Football League's president Joe Richards.

It was designed and produced by Mappin & Webb, one of the UK’s leading retailers of fine jewellery and silverware.

The unusual three-handled trophy is a feature based on an old design from a loving cup.

This trophy as awarded to the winners until 1981–82 and since 1990–91.

Alternative trophies were awarded from 1982-83 to 1985-86 and from 1986-87 to 1989-90 in line with the wishes of the sponsors.