What is particularly illogical is scrapping replays in first 2 rounds. Why are Premier League bothered?
That would be a bit counter productive because the cup tie all the smaller clubs dream of is with the very teams you are proposing to excludeCould it be not be possible to have the FA cup continue in its present format but only with Premiership teams who accept the present situation with regards to replays etc. In other words the Premiership clubs would have to apply to play in the FA cup. Not every Premiership club plays in Europe, and the FA cup is probably their only realistic chance of a trophy. The League Cup has already been tampered with to such an extent it's almost a reserve team type situation for most Premiership clubs already. Should not the EFL basically take ownership of the FA cup for the sake of football and be damned with the self serving elite.
I actually semi agree with the FA on this one.
Semi not Totally
With an increasing number of fixtures having to be re- scheduled, or shoe horned in because of replays, this causes a back log fixtures in already hectic schedules, not just in PL but throughout the league structure.
This is also hindered by poor weather in winter months, midway through the competition which increases risk of injury.
However if this is to be actioned then FA should also show continuity and remove the EFL trophy for L1 L2 and U 20 squads.
Secondly, FA should consider moving the start of the leagues fixtures forward to June and conclude March.
This would enable less disruption in postponements due to weather, and would help reduce injury with pitches in better condition.
The top clubs' premise is already pretty flimsy without trying this.
It's a bit hard to campaign to get rid of replays because they're worried about player welfare if they then reschedule the season to include the hottest parts of the year.