Doncaster Rovers were disappointed to learn of the decision to abolish replays in the Emirates FA Cup proper without fair consultation with clubs.
The future of replays in the competition had been a major topic in the on-going negotiations over vital financial redistribution from the Premier League to the clubs of the EFL.
It is frustrating to hear that this important topic of conversation has been overridden, particularly without a just and proper consultation process.
Cup replays have been incredibly valuable for dozens of clubs across the EFL and non-league pyramid for decades. That they should be so flippantly removed, with no details of recompense provided, is bitterly disappointing.
We look forward to receiving guidance from the EFL on how the decision will be challenged as well as hearing from the Football Association on how the organisation plans on either compensating clubs or engaging in a fair consultation process.
