Leeds United's potential Champions League silver lining in wake of European Super League fallout

Following statements issued by major footballing bodies condemning plans to form a breakaway European Super League, the prospect of a Premier League without the 'Big Six' has been floated amongst fans on social media.

West Ham would be top of the table if the Premier League expunged the want-away six’s results from the record this season.

Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City, and Tottenham all announced that they are planning on joining a new European super league competition.

The breakaway tournament has been met by condemnation from fans and governing bodies alike.

It’s not yet known what, if any, sanctions the regulators will impose on the rebel clubs.

One thing some fans have called for is to kick the want-away clubs out of the Premier League.

It’s the most extreme action the league would take, and is admittedly unlikely.

However, if they were to go for it, West Ham would be on course for their first ever top flight league title.

Removing the breakaway clubs’ results from this season would leave the Hammers on 49 points.

That puts them top of the table ahead of Leicester, who would have 40.

Leeds would be in third with 39 points, followed by Aston Villa and Everton with 34 each, though Villa would be ahead on goal difference.

What the Premier League table would look like without the 'Big Six' (@JoeDonnohue)

Sheffield United, West Brom and Fulham would still be in the bottom three, but with the league being six clubs short for next season they’d all avoid the drop.

While this course of action remains a distinct improbability, football's fabric does appear to be at risk of bursting at the seams.

Provided European competitions remain unamended, and the Premier League stand firm on their commitment to banish any clubs breaking away from the competition without prior consent, it would open the door for Leeds United to potentially compete in the Champions League next season.

At present, West Ham United, Leicester City, Leeds United and Aston Villa would qualify for next year's premium UEFA club competition, taking up the top four spots theoretically vacated by members of the 'Big Six'.