The FA have announced that there will be no replays in the FA Cup for quarter-final games from next year.

The rule, which will come into force in March 2017, will see quarter-finals played to a conclusion on the day.

The FA also state that all eight teams will play their games over the weekend, but I assume they are including Friday and Monday in there as the TV companies seem to think those are also classed as being part of ‘the weekend’.

Martin Glenn, FA chief executive, said: “The Emirates FA Cup remains at the heart of English football and this change adds to the excitement of the competition and will benefit the wider game in general.

“With great attendances and TV figures across the BBC and BT Sport, this season has confirmed the Cup’s special status – underlined by great stories culminating in Manchester United’s triumph at Wembley last Saturday.

“In a demanding calendar and with increased pressures on fans, it is important we move with the times and consider new innovations such as last week’s successful Non-League Finals Day which saw 50,000 fans at Wembley for the Vase and Trophy.

“While fully respecting tradition and history, this new development will help the Cup retain its status as a much-loved and world-renowned competition.”

The FA also state that they are continuing to look at other ways of easing congestion within the English football schedule and helping increase the FA Cup’s ‘status and appeal’

One might start with the aforementioned Friday and Monday games and playing FA Cup matches when there are also Premier League games on.

Just a suggestion.