The EFL will seek compensation following the “frustrating and disappointing” decision to scrap FA Cup replays.
The FA and Premier League announced their decision on Thursday not to allow any matches beyond the first round proper to have replays from next season.
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This announcement was accompanied by the decision to reschedule the FA Cup final and scrap the Premier League winter break.
FA Cup replays are a huge source of media exposure for EFL clubs, not to mention a sometimes crucial source of revenue.
In response to the news, EFL chief executive Trevor Birch fought back.
He said: “The EFL notes today’s joint announcement by the FA and Premier League regarding the removal of FA Cup replays and wider changes to the schedule.
“While the league had previously been involved in discussions over the future of the calendar, these were based on agreeing a new financial deal with the Premier League for EFL clubs, which did not progressed.
“This is frustrating and disappointing given that the calendar is a common asset across football and, as we have always said, a game-time approach is necessary to find solutions to complex match planning challenges .
“Our domestic calendar has been put under extreme pressure by the expansion of UEFA competitions and, ultimately, this represents another traditional revenue stream for EFL clubs at a time when the financial gap between the biggest clubs and those lower in the pyramid is widening more than ever.
“We will now discuss the implications for EFL clubs and seek appropriate compensation arrangements.”
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