Tranmere Rovers unite the football world with strong statement against 'disgraceful' FA Cup ruling

Tranmere Rovers have described the decision from the Football Association and the Premier League to change the format of the FA Cup as "disgraceful".

On Thursday, the Football Association alongside the English top-flight announced the decision to overhaul the format of the illustrious competition - including the scrapping of replays from the first round proper.

The decision has been met with backlash from football fans across the country, despite the negotiations between the FA and the Premier League agreeing to a new settlement which will see increased funding to the football pyramid and grassroots by £33million a season.

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Rovers became one of the first clubs to speak out against the decision from the respective governing bodies, slamming the decision with a club statement. The statement read: "Tranmere Rovers condemn the disgraceful decision taken by The FA and the Premier League to change the format of the FA Cup, including the scrapping of replays.

"There was no consultation with Football League clubs, National League clubs or grassroots clubs to whom the competition represents not only their best opportunity to create life-long memories for supporters but also a hugely important source of income. We also understand that FA Council members were not consulted about the changes.

"The decision, and the way it was taken, demonstrate a total lack of respect for the football pyramid and its fans. Football belongs to all of us and decisions should not be taken in back room deals in which only the very wealthiest clubs