EASTLEIGH have issued a statement condemning the planned changes to the FA Cup, which include scrapping replays from the first round onwards. 

The EFL will seek compensation for its clubs over the “frustrating and disappointing” decision to scrap all FA Cup replays from next season.

League sources say it was sidelined from the decision, which was announced by the Football Association on Thursday.

National League Eastleigh joined several clubs in issuing their verdict this week, stating: "We join the wider football community in condemning the disgraceful actions taken today by The FA and the Premier League.

"The most prestigious cup competition in club football, which sees over 720 teams compete has today without due process seen a decision made without any considerations for the footballing community.

"In the modern game where clubs are struggling to survive up and down the country, a source of significant income has been taken away without any consultation, whilst 20 teams see the lucrative benefits of multi-billion pound broadcasting rights.

"The Football League, National League and grassroots teams are the foundation of the ‘beautiful game’ and today highlights the extreme disconnect between the football pyramid.

"We condemn the changes wholeheartedly and would urge The FA to suspend them immediately until all stakeholders in the game are properly consulted." 

The FA responded to the backlash on Friday in their own statement, saying: "We understand the concerns expressed over the last 24 hours, and we will be sharing more details with clubs very shortly to explain the additional revenue opportunities in the early rounds.

"We will keep this under review as the new calendar begins to ensure that EFL and National League clubs do not lose out."