League Two club fined for late player registration but avoid Carabao Cup expulsion
Grimsby Town have been fined £20,000 for fielding an ineligible player in their Carabao Cup win over Manchester United, but the League Two side have avoided the threat of expulsion from the competition.
The breach occurred after Clarke Oduor’s registration was submitted less than two minutes past the midday deadline on the eve of the tie. The Kenya international, who joined on loan from Bradford City, was brought on as a substitute during extra time at Blundell Park. Grimsby went on to beat United 12-11 on penalties after a 2-2 draw.
The EFL confirmed on Tuesday that the club had self-reported the error, which was attributed to a computer malfunction. While the regulations gave scope for the match to be replayed or for Grimsby to be removed from the tournament, the league opted for a financial penalty.
Half of the fine has been suspended, to be enforced only if the club commits a similar offence this season.
Oduor made his debut with Grimsby leading 2-0, but went on to miss his penalty in the shootout. His late registration was timed at 12.01pm, just outside the permitted window.
Grimsby issued a statement accepting the punishment, saying: “We accept the fine imposed and fully recognise the importance of adhering to competition rules. This mistake was not deliberate, and the club acted transparently by self-reporting the breach as soon as it came to light.”
Manchester United, who were knocked out in dramatic fashion, have the right to appeal against the EFL’s decision but have so far declined to comment.
The ruling means Grimsby will remain in the Carabao Cup third round draw.
