Grimsby Town Fined After Ineligible Player Fielded in Carabao Cup Upset of Manchester United; Expulsion Ruled Out

Grimsby Town have been fined £20,000 (₹ 23,54,698) by the English Football League (EFL) after fielding an ineligible player during their Carabao Cup victory over Manchester United. The League Two side stunned United in the second round, winning on penalties after a 2-2 draw in normal time. But their success was overshadowed when it emerged that midfielder Clarke Oduor, who had joined on loan from Bradford City, had been registered one minute and 59 seconds after the competition’s noon deadline. Grimsby admitted the error and self-reported the breach. The EFL confirmed: “The club’s non-compliance was not deliberate with no intention to deceive or mislead.” The Mariners must pay £10,000 immediately, with a further £10,000 suspended until the end of the season. In a statement, Grimsby explained: “The registration was submitted to the EFL at one minute past the deadline and the issue was not immediately identified by the club due to a computer problem being experienced. We accept the fine imposed and fully recognise the importance of adhering to competition rules.” The club added that they had reviewed internal processes: “This mistake was not deliberate, and the club acted transparently by self-reporting the breach as soon as it came to light. Since this incident, we have undertaken a thorough review of our processes and implemented strengthened measures to ensure it cannot happen again. We thank the EFL board for recognising our co-operation and intent.” Manchester United declined to comment on the matter but, under EFL rules, they have until next Monday to appeal the decision. The EFL stressed the fine “followed precedent” after reviewing the case and comparing it with similar offences. On three previous occasions, clubs have been punished but allowed to progress after fielding ineligible players in the League Cup. Liverpool, Accrington Stanley and Sunderland were all fined but not expelled, with each of them having also won their respective ties. David Artell’s Grimsby side will now meet Sheffield Wednesday, who are struggling in the Championship, in the third round later this month.