Last season, Liverpool had to play two games against Wolverhampton after the 2-2 result at Anfield. The Reds won the return 1-0, but later went out against Brighton. That opportunity may disappear now, because the FA is considering scrapping rematches in the cup towards next season.
According to The Times the rule change comes due to the Champions League format changing next season. Instead of eight groups of four teams, the European tournament will have a large group stage with 36 teams. Each team will play eight games, compared to six in this season’s format.
In addition to this, the FA will make more arrangements for a winter break after the Christmas period. It also comes this season, with a free game on one of two weekends early in the new year.
“The FA’s bosses are ready to give up rematches, but want to continue with the winter break. The break will, of course, be postponed. Ten clubs play on one weekend, and the others on the following, so as not to leave any gaps for rights holders”, writes the English newspaper.
The EFL, which runs the Carabao Cup, is also willing to change the semi-finals from two games to one. This season there will be two games, 10 January midweek and 24 January midweek.
Five cases under Klopp
Ever since the German took over Liverpool in the autumn of 2015, the Reds have played replays in the FA Cup on five occasions. The last in the series is last season’s match against Wolverhampton.
Then the game at Anfield ended 2-2, and a new game was played at Molineux in midweek between Premier League games against Brighton and Chelsea. Liverpool progressed to the fourth round, but took just one point in the two league games.
Klopp has also been out in rematches against Exeter (15/16), West Ham (15/16), Plymouth (16/17) and Shrewsbury (19/20). All in all, it is not an extreme change for the German, but it is nevertheless a step in the right direction when it comes to the physical condition of the players.
On Sunday at 14.00, an hour before the match against Fulham, we will find out who Liverpool will meet in the third round of the FA Cup. The games will be played on the weekend of 6-7. January.
2023-12-01 20:53:00
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