BREAKING: Grimsby punished after fielding ineligible player for famous Man United victoryhttps://t.co/nmRj99smCs
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£20,000 but spared expulsion from the Carabao Cup after fielding ineligible player Clarke Oduor in their upset win over Manchester United.
Grimsby Town have been fined £20,000 for fielding an ineligible player in their shock Carabao Cup victory over Manchester United. The English Football League (EFL) confirmed on Tuesday that Clarke Oduor’s registration was submitted one minute past the noon deadline, rendering him ineligible. Despite the breach, Grimsby escaped expulsion, with half of the fine suspended unless another offence occurs this season.
The League Two club self-reported the error and insisted it was not deliberate. “The Board further noted the Club’s non-compliance was not deliberate with no intention to deceive or mislead,” the EFL said in a statement. Grimsby attributed the mistake to “a computer problem being experienced” and pledged reforms. “We accept the fine imposed and fully recognise the importance of adhering to competition rules and regulations,” the club stated.
Grimsby, who beat United on penalties, now face Sheffield Wednesday in the third round. Oduor, on loan from Bradford City, has since featured in league action.