Several lower-league clubs have expressed their dissatisfaction with the recent changes to FA Cup replays. Teams are now denied the opportunity for money-spinning replays at Premier League grounds if they can hold them to a draw, and some would also miss out on valuable TV revenue.

Chris Wilder, the first Premier League boss to criticize the changes, voiced concerns about the impact of the changes on non-league clubs and their financial implications. Additionally, former MP Burnham shared Wilder’s concerns and called for action against the changes.

Several EFL clubs, including Peterborough United and Carlisle United, have issued strongly-worded statements in reaction to the changes. The chairman of Peterborough United expressed dismay at the lack of communication and consultation with EFL clubs, while Carlisle United deemed the manner of the changes disgraceful and called on the FA to suspend the decision immediately and properly consult with the game’s stakeholders.

In response to the strong reactions, the FA has put out a statement outlining the approval process for the 2024-25 professional game football calendar. They explained that the decision to remove Emirates FA Cup replays was made in discussions with the Premier League and EFL to make all competitions stronger and maintain player welfare.

They also emphasized the increase in broadcast revenue opportunities for EFL and National League teams in the early rounds. The FA acknowledged the concerns expressed by clubs and committed to sharing more details with clubs shortly to explain the additional revenue opportunities in the early rounds.

They assured that they would keep the situation under review to ensure that EFL and National League clubs do not lose out. The text also includes a call to action for readers to join a new WhatsApp community and receive daily Mirror Football content, special offers, promotions, and adverts from the publisher and their partners.