Swindon Expelled From Trophy And Luton Reinstated

Swindon person been thrown retired of nan Vertu Trophy by nan English Football League for fielding 2 ineligible players against Luton Town, meaning nan Hatters are alternatively done to nan quarter-finals.

The Robins were charged by nan EFL and Football Association pursuing their 2-1 triumph against Luton past month.

Captain Ollie Clarke started nan lucifer while he was already serving a suspension and Aaron Drinan was utilized arsenic a substitute contempt not appearing connected nan teamsheet.

Luton will now return connected Plymouth Argyle astatine Kenilworth Road successful a last-eight tie, but not connected Tuesday, 10 February arsenic primitively scheduled.

The EFL said nan caller day for nan necktie would beryllium confirmed successful nan adjacent 48 hours.

Swindon person besides been fined £40,000, pinch £20,000 of it suspended, which will beryllium automatically payable if they section aliases sanction connected a squad expanse an ineligible subordinate earlier nan extremity of nan 2026-27 season.

Swindon said they were "deeply disappointed" pinch nan decision.

"We powerfully judge this result is unfair and do not work together pinch nan findings," a nine connection said.

"That said, we respect nan disciplinary process and nan authority of nan commission.

"Right now, our attraction has to beryllium connected moving guardant together arsenic a shot club. We will return clip to reflect, study from what has happened, and make judge we proceed to meet nan highest standards successful everything we do.

"Above all, our privilege remains pinch our players, staff, and supporters. We will support backing them afloat arsenic we push connected and compete pinch everything we person successful our remaining fixtures this season."