EFL club slam ‘unfair decision’ after being kicked out of cup competition

The club issued a strong statement

The situation has come about after a match in the competition, also referred to as the Vertu Trophy, back in January.

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During a clash against Luton on January 13th, Swindon are believed to have fielded two ineligible players.

In an earlier statement from the EFL, the decision to remove Swindon from the Vertu Trophy was confirmed.

The statement began: "An Independent Disciplinary Commission has determined that Swindon Town Football Club is to be removed from this season’s Vertu Trophy competition for breaches of EFL Regulations and EFL Trophy Rules."

Confirming the breach in rules by Swindon, the statement continues: "The club played Oliver Clarke, who was serving a seven-game suspension from the Football Association."

Adding: "In addition, Aaron Drinan, who started the second half of the tie, was not named on the official team sheet."

The team Swindon beat 2-1 during the match, Luton Town, will now take their place in the competition.

In response to the decision, Swindon have now released a statement of their own.

"We strongly believe this outcome is unfair and do not agree with the findings," the club announced.

"Swindon Town Football Club is deeply disappointed by the Independent Disciplinary Commission’s decision to remove the club from this season’s Vertu Trophy," the club also said.

Despite their disappointment with the outcome, Swindon made sure to make clear: " We respect the disciplinary process and the authority of the commission.

"Right now, our focus has to be on moving forward together as a football club.

"We will take time to reflect, learn from what has happened, and make sure we continue to meet the highest standards in everything we do.

"Above all, our priority remains with our players, staff, and supporters.

"We will keep backing them fully as we push on and compete with everything we have in our remaining fixtures this season."

After taking Swindon's spot in the Vertu Trophy quarter finals, Luton are now set to play Plymouth Argyle.