League Cup to be named the Capital One Cup from next season

carling cup 2012, liverpool , Gerrard

carling cup 2012, liverpool , Gerrard- Getty

The League Cup is to be rebranded as the Capital One Cup from next season after the Football League agreed a four-year sponsorship deal with the financial services company.

Football League chief commercial officer Richard Heaselgrave said: “This is terrific news for clubs and a great way to conclude the season.”

The competition has been sponsored by various companies over the years, including Coca-Cola, Worthington’s and Carling – a brand of parent brewing company Molson Coors. The tournament has been known as the Carling Cup since 2003.

The competition is widely seen as a lesser title than the more storied FA Cup, but has been used by many Premier League clubs in recent years as a method of handing young prospects valuable first-team experience.

Heaselgrave added: “The Capital One Cup is in great shape having been re-invigorated in recent seasons by a number of memorable finals, some thrilling midweek cup football and a first glimpse of the stars of the future.”

Kenny Dalglish led his Liverpool side to the 2011-12 League Cup, overcoming Cardiff City on penalties at Wembley in February.