Leeds United stance on FA Cup replays revealed as Whites chief gives Stuart Dallas update

Leeds United chief executive Angus Kinnear has expressed his disappointment at the Football Association's decision to scrap replays ahead of next year's competition.

The Whites CEO was part of a Supporter Advisory Board (SAB) meeting which took place at Elland Road at the end of last month. An array of topics were discussed, with the FA Cup a major discussion point.

It was confirmed ahead of the 2024/25 season, the Football Association would get rid of replays following the first round of the competition. The changes come as part of a new six-year agreement with the Premier League.

Kinnear said he was "disappointed" with the outcome and the way the situation had been dealt with when looking at the minutes from the meeting. He also explained that the English Football League were "not part of the decision".

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The reaction from the clubs down the football pyramid was evident, with several clubs releasing statements expressing their disappointment in the decision. Leeds won the competition in 1972 having defeated Arsenal in the final, facing one replay on their way to Wembley as they overcame Liverpool in the fourth round.

Kinnear was also able to discuss the role of Stuart Dallas as the Whites look to keep him involved at the club. The Northern Ireland international called time on his professional career after a two-year spell on the sidelines with a knee injury.

It brought to an end his nine-year stay at Elland Road as a footballer, but it was confirmed that the club are looking for ways to keep him involved at Thorp Arch. Kinnear confirmed this in the meeting and said the 33-year-old is "extremely thankful for all the support he has received".

Plans were also discussed about Leeds United Women's side. Simon Wood's team ended their Women's National League Division One North campaign in sixth place on 34 points, having been beaten on the final day by Chester le Street Town.

The side are currently at the fourth step of the women's football pyramid, meaning they would need three promotions to reach the Women's Super League. Kinnear explained that LUFCW want to be a WSL team eventually, however the league format which only allows one promotion spot currently means ‘buying’ promotion isn’t feasible.