John Eustace has weighed in on the debate over FA Cup replays, insisting he doesn't understand the decision.

The Premier League and FA announced that replays would be scrapped from round one from next season. However, EFL clubs have bitten back after insisting they were not consulted about this decision.

The latest EFL statement insists that whilst wider discussions took place in September 2023 about reformatting the competition as part of the 'new deal for football', nothing was ever agreed.

As a result, clubs across the country in the EFL have published statements outlining their anger at the decision.

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Blackburn Rovers' head coach has personal experience on the value of the cup competition having worked in Non-League with Kidderminster Harriers.

They reached the first round twice, which was a big achievement, and brought in vital revenue for the club.

Eustace admitted he doesn't agree with the decision and feels The FA Cup's importance must be protected.

"It's a shame, I have worked at Non-League level and I know exactly what it means to go somewhere and get a good result," Eustace said.

"You bring the bigger teams back to your home stadium as well. I think it's a shame, The FA Cup is for the fans. I think it's a shame they are scrapping the replays but what can you do?

"It's huge. We got to the first round proper twice at Kidderminster when I was there. We played Blackpool and it was a great day, a few replays on the way to get to that stage.

"The FA Cup is a fantastic competition, it needs to be taken seriously and I would continue with the replays. 

"I don't really get it at all. It's part of tradition, history, The FA Cup is the biggest cup competition in the world so why change it?"