Swindon expelled from Trophy and Luton reinstated

Swindon have been thrown out of the Vertu Trophy by the English Football League for fielding two ineligible players against Luton Town, meaning the Hatters are instead through to the quarter-finals.

The Robins were charged by the EFL and Football Association following their 2-1 win against Luton last month.

Captain Ollie Clarke started the match while he was already serving a suspension and Aaron Drinan was used as a substitute despite not appearing on the teamsheet.

Luton will now take on Plymouth Argyle at Kenilworth Road in a last-eight tie, but not on Tuesday, 10 February as originally scheduled.

The EFL said the new date for the tie would be confirmed in the next 48 hours.

Swindon have also been fined £40,000, with £20,000 of it suspended, which will be automatically payable if they field or name on a team sheet an ineligible player before the end of the 2026-27 season.

Swindon said they were “deeply disappointed” with the decision.

“We strongly believe this outcome is unfair and do not agree with the findings,” a club statement said.

“That said, we respect the disciplinary process and the authority of the commission.

“Right now, our focus has to be on moving forward together as a football club. We will take time to reflect, learn from what has happened, and make sure we continue to meet the highest standards in everything we do.

Swindon captain Clarke was given a one-game ban by the FA last week and the club were fined £1,000 for his appearance in the match, which came while he was in the midst of an earlier seven-game suspension.

The club’s top scorer, Drinan, was one of three half-time changes despite Ryan Tafazolli being listed on the teamsheet in his place.

Play continued until the 64th minute when his presence was noticed and questioned between officials and club staff, leading to an eight-minute delay in the game and the forward eventually staying on the pitch.