sport news EFL in UPROAR over decision to scrap FA Cup replays from next season - with ... trends now

English football is in uproar after the FA and Premier League struck a deal to scrap FA Cup replays.

A stunned English Football League spoke of their ‘frustration and disappointment’ at the top flight and governing body after the bombshell, historic move was announced on Thursday morning while clubs have branded it ‘a disgrace’ and called for action.

EFL chiefs say they only gave their approval on the basis that the axing of replays from the first round onwards would be part of the still-outstanding financial resettlement with the top flight. 

And furious executives have said they will now seek compensation — while clubs have claimed they only found out after the FA’s statement.

The FA said the cull, which comes with ‘up to £33million additional funding for grassroots’ were driven by the expansion to UEFA competitions. From next season, Champions League clubs will play two more group matches.

The FA added that the six-year agreement, which starts next season, will ensure all rounds are played on weekends, including the fifth round, which has taken place in midweek for the last five years.

Rounds four and five will be exclusive of Premier League fixtures for the first time, while the FA Cup final will take place on the penultimate weekend of the top-flight season.

While no Premier League matches will go ahead on the Friday before or the Saturday of the final, they will be played the following day. The winter break will disappear, while players will be guaranteed three weeks off in the summer.

In what rapidly developed into a seismic row, FA insiders have spoken of being ‘mystified’ at the EFL response, pointing out that the calendar was signed off by the Professional Game Board, which includes EFL chair Rick Parry, execs Peter Ridsdale (Preston), Steve Kavanagh (Millwall), and Jez Moxey (Burton).

‘It’s for the EFL to keep its clubs updated,’ a source hit back.

'I have no idea what the Premier League or the FA are even thinking pulling this move the way its unfolded today. 

In an explosive statement, League Two Tranmere Rovers said they ‘condemn the

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