Coventry boss Robins slams FA Cup replays being scrapped

Coventry City boss Mark Robins has slammed the decision to end FA Cup replays.

Ahead of their Cup semifinal against Manchester United, Robins was asked about the joint Premier League and FA decision.

"It does kick everyone in the teeth below that level," he said. "There's nothing we can do about it, apart from voice our concerns. Maybe there is a re-think for those clubs but it's really difficult for them to come to terms with.

"It's difficult because you look at it and those clubs, the grassroots, the EFL and below are all part of the pyramid which needs to feed each other - and eventually feeds the Premier League.

"There are a lot of players who come out from academies from Premier League teams who get the game time, understanding, experience (in the EFL) and then they go back and make it at the clubs. Sometimes they get into the international teams. We've all played our part in developing them and that should never be underestimated or forgotten about.

"There are other things which could have happened like replays up until the third round which doesn't impact on the bigger clubs."