Uefa Conference League: What does Larne’s European exit mean for the Irish League?

The potential loss of the fourth European place would also raise questions around the final match of the season, the European play-off.

As things stand, teams who finish between third and seventh compete in a play-off for the final position European position.

However, Northern Ireland Football League [NIFL] chief executive Gerard Lawlor had suggested that if there became three European spots, the play-off may not take place.

“We would need to talk to the clubs about that and have a discussion, but it is probably the most sensible and easy outcome,” he said when asked would the play-off be cancelled.

“We will give the club different models, but it is the reality we must adapt to.”

Howver, with the excitement that the play-offs bring, managers such as Larne’s Gary Haveron believe they are crucial.

“There are so many dead rubber games at the end of the season and if you are in the bottom half of the table and not involved in the Irish Cup, what is your motivation,” Haveron told BBC Sport NI.

“What is the motivation if you cannot chase down seventh place and a European spot?

“The play-off has led to loads of excitement. Do I like being involved in them? No, but I have been involved in two finals, and the drama is absolutely unbelievable.”