Liverpool legend John Aldridge has joined our crusade to save FA Cup replays.

But his early career was in the lower leagues with South Liverpool, Newport County and Oxford United.

He told how the income from a FA Cup run was vital for the survival of grassroots sides, especially with lucrative replays against top flight opposition.



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His Tramere side defeated Premier League Everton 3-0 at Goodison Park, then they came from 3-0 down at half time to beat another Premier League outfit Southampton 4-3 before losing to neighbours Liverpool in 2000!

Campaign group Fair Game said dozens of clubs had now joined the call to bring back replays, including Tranmere and Newport County!

The Premier League has pledged an extra £33m funding to support grassroots football.

No 10 said the Government accepted that smaller clubs needed David v Goliath matches for income but it was for the football authorities to resolve the issue of FA Cup replays.

A FA spokesperson said: “We have had to find a solution to our domestic calendar congestion and take into account player welfare.

We will make sure no club loses out financially from the loss of replays and are sure that the FA Cup will continue to bring fans exciting and memorable moments for many years to come.

“Lower league clubs can continue to draw Premier League giants in the Cup - this is an important part of the magic of the cup and it won’t change “

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