SWINDON TOWN have said they are “extremely disappointed” after being expelled from the EFL Trophy following the inclusion of two players who were ruled ineligible in their last-16 match, one of whom was Irish forward Aaron Drinan.
The Cork-born striker was introduced as a substitute despite not appearing on the official team sheet during their 2-1 victory over Luton Town on 13 January. The situation caused an eight-minute stoppage, but Drinan — who came on at half-time — remained on the field for the rest of the match.
The second ineligible player was Oliver Clarke, with the English midfielder serving a seven-match suspension issued by the Football Association at the time.
An investigation was launched by the EFL, and the ruling of the Independent Disciplinary Commission was confirmed this evening.
In addition to being removed from the competition — allowing Luton to progress to the quarter-finals where they will meet Plymouth Argyle — Swindon have been fined £40,000 [€46,268]. Half of that amount, £20,000 [€23,133], will be suspended but will become payable automatically should the club field or name an ineligible player on a team sheet before the conclusion of the 2026/27 season.
Swindon stated that they “firmly believe this decision is unjust and do not accept the conclusions reached,” while also confirming they “respect the disciplinary procedure and the authority of the Commission”.
A statement from the League Two club said: “Swindon Town Football Club is extremely disappointed with the Independent Disciplinary Commission’s ruling to exclude the Club from this season’s Vertu Trophy.
“We strongly feel this decision is unfair and we do not agree with the findings. Nevertheless, we respect the disciplinary process and the authority of the Commission.
“Our focus now must be on moving forward together as a football club. We will take time to reflect on what has occurred, learn from it, and ensure we continue to uphold the highest standards in everything we do.
“Above all else, our main priority remains our players, staff and supporters. We will continue to support them fully as we push ahead and compete with full commitment in our remaining matches this season.”
