The FA has this evening released the following statement regarding replays in the Emirates FA Cup:
The FA can confirm that replays have been removed in both the Third and Fourth Rounds of the 2021/22 Emirates FA Cup.
This exceptional decision was approved by The FA Board on Friday 17 December and has been taken in the wider interest of English football to alleviate the possibility of fixture congestion following several postponements in recent days and continued uncertainty ahead due to COVID-19.
Ties in the Third and Fourth Rounds of this season’s competition will be played to a finish on the day, with extra-time and penalties if required.
Replays will return up to and including the Fourth Round of the Emirates FA Cup from the 2022/23 season onwards.