The Football Association have announced that Bradford City will no longer be able to compete in the FA Cup after fielding an ineligible player during their campaign.
The League Two outfit opted to play Curtis Good, who moved to the club on loan from Newcastle United, in an FA Cup tie against Brentford. However, the club did not have the necessary written permission to use him in the match.
A statement released by the governing body said: "Bradford's removal from the competition is subject to appeal, but if this appeal is unsuccessful Brentford will go forward to the third round and play either Bury or Southend United."
Bradford responded to the punishment with a statement, which said: "Bradford City Football Club is very sorry to have to report such a matter and apologies to our fans. The error was of an administrative technical nature and not one to intentionally break competition rules.
"We presented a case of mitigation to the FA on Thursday 6 December, however the FA panel chose to enforce the full powers of its jurisdiction and have removed the club from the FA Cup competition.
"We are clearly disappointed by this decision and cannot comment further on this matter as the club is still actively conducting a full investigation. The club has until 5.00pm today to lodge an appeal with the FA and we are currently reviewing our position in relation to this."
The match in question took place on November 30.
Danielle Joynson
