Cambridge United have joined a growing list of club’s to condemn the decision to scrap FA Cup replays from next season.
It was announced yesterday that the Football Association and Premier League had reached the agreement to stop all replays beyond the first round of the competition ‘in light of changes to the calendar driven by the expanded UEFA competitions’.
However, the decision was seemingly made without consulting Football League and non-league clubs – and it has been met by widespread criticism.
A statement from the U’s read: “Cambridge United are extremely disappointed by the Football Association’s decision to remove FA Cup replays from next season.
“This appears to have been a deal done behind closed doors without any meaningful consultation with clubs outside the PL and against the democratic spirit of the FA Cup itself.
“Replays have not only become a potentially important revenue stream for lower league clubs, but have also enabled thousands of supporters across the country to experience unique and special memories in the competition, such as the U’s’ 2015 fourth round replay at Old Trafford.
“As an organisation that is ‘For All’ we hope that the FA will now pause, consider whether this decision is in the best interests of the wider game and discuss it fully with all parts of the pyramid.
“The way this has been done is another clear example of why football needs an Independent Regulator to protect the games heritage and help build a more sustainable game across the football pyramid.”
