THE Setanta Cup will return in 2014 with a smaller field and the likelihood of a reduction in prize money.

Invitations were sent out to clubs on Tuesday night after it was agreed to bring down the number of participants from 12 to 8, with four each from the League of Ireland and the Irish League.

League winners St Patrick's Athletic, runners-up Dundalk, FAI Cup victors Sligo Rovers and League Cup holders Shamrock Rovers will make up the southern contingent, with Cliftonville, Crusaders, Glentoran and Linfield lined up to represent Northern Ireland.

There had been speculation over the competition's future after Setanta indicated they would not be renewing their association. The FAI and the IFA are still looking for a new title sponsor, but the TV broadcaster have indicated they are willing to continue supporting the competition. They will become 'TV sponsors' if a fresh backer is found.

Irish Independent