EFL clubs now expose shameful actions of The FA and Premier League with FA Cup moves


 
 
 
 
 
 

Earlier today (Thursday 18 April 2024), an official announcement was made about changes that had been agreed for the FA Cup format moving forward.

Amongst the many changes (see them HERE), they included scrapping FA Cup replays all the way from the first round proper.

A massive backlash has ensued, with many calling into question exactly who these changes benefit.

Amongst those pointing out what a disgrace this announcement was, are those clubs outside the Premier League.

Amongst those unhappy clubs we have Tranmere Rovers, who have released an official statement of their own.

They have spelled out quite clearly just how shocking these FA Cup changes are AND in particular, how the decision making process worked…

Tranmere stating that ‘There was no consultation with Football League clubs, National League clubs or grassroots clubs to whom the competition represents not only their best opportunity to create life-long memories for supporters but also a hugely important source of income. We also understand that FA Council members were not consulted about the changes.’

This is terrible.

Just who do these people think they are, a small number of people inside The FA and a small number of club owners, namely Premier League club owners, plus we can all guess who the very small number of usual suspects are at the very heart of these shameless actions.

The FA Cup is for everybody and ESPECIALLY those clubs not lucky enough to have Premier League level revenues.

For all those EFL clubs and below to be dictated to yet again by the Premier League (and The FA in this instance) and not even be consulted, it is beyond belief.

Tranmere Rovers official statement – 18 April 2024:

‘Tranmere Rovers condemn the disgraceful decision taken by The FA and the Premier League to change the format of the FA Cup, including the scrapping of replays.

There was no consultation with Football League clubs, National League clubs or grassroots clubs to whom the competition represents not only their best opportunity to create life-long memories for supporters but also a hugely important source of income. We also understand that FA Council members were not consulted about the changes.

The decision, and the way it was taken, demonstrate a total lack of respect for the football pyramid and its fans. Football belongs to all of us and decisions should not be taken in back room deals in which only the very wealthiest clubs are allowed to participate.

It is yet another eloquent example of the 19th-century governance that means that football simply cannot regulate itself and needs the Independent Football Regulator to have real teeth.

We condemn the changes wholeheartedly and urge The FA to suspend them immediately until all stakeholders in the game are properly consulted.’