Clubs are threatening to boycott the FA Cup as part of solidarity measures following the decision of the English FA to scrap replays.
On Thursday, April 18, 2024, it was disclosed that FA Cup replays from the opening round of the competition were being axed, along with other defining changes.
Additionally, the FA also made it known that the mid-season break would be removed and there would be a £33 million increase in funding for football at the grassroots level.
There has been a large amount of kickbacks towards the decision to axe replays as it could have a massive impact on the revenue for lower league sides.
Subsequent reports now indicate that a host of EFL and National League clubs are threatening to exclude themselves from the FA Cup next season.
Following the important decision made on Thursday, April 18, 2024, several EFL Clubs have put out statements bashing the changes made by the FA and Premier League.
Chairman of Tranmere Rovers indicates support for a boycott of the FA Cup due to replays saga
Mark Palios, chairman of lower league side Tranmere Rovers has indicated that he would be ready to support a boycott.
Speaking with the Telegraph, he said: “There needs to be further debate.
“But if that was the situation that most of the clubs felt that way, I’d support it.”
Mark’s comment came after the chairman of Accrington Stanley, Andy Holt, took to social media, writing: “I would support a boycott if enough clubs feel the same.”
Traditionally and historically replays have taken place until the fourth round if a match culminates in a draw.
However, these changes will see all first-round and subsequent matches head to extra time and the lottery of penalties if a winner isn’t determined in regular time.
Top government officials have also waded in on the matter, including a spokesman for the British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak.
The spokesman said: “David and Goliath fixtures are a part of the magic of the Cup.
“We know that replays have been a welcome source of income for smaller clubs throughout the years.
“These are, however, decisions for the footballing authorities.”
Spokesman of British Prime Minister requests for proper explanation over the decision
The spokesman however stressed that the onus lies with the FA and Premier League to explain why their decision is in the interest of the fans.
Labor head Sir Keir Starmer lambasted the decision of the FA, tagging it as a “wrong” move, expressing that replays are “part of the tradition of the FA Cup”.
Anyway, the FA Cup is currently in its important stages for the 2023/24 season, with semi-final fixtures set to go down this weekend.
Chelsea and defending champions Manchester City go head-to-head on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at Wembley Stadium, with either side looking to outwit the other.
The other semi-final fixture sees Erik Ten Hag’s Manchester United play against Championship side Coventry City on Sunday, April 21, 2024, with both sides also admiring the possibility of progressing into the final.
