THE FA have announced that a new format will be introduced to this year's FA Cup whereby teams can make a fourth substitution in extra time from the quarter-finals onwards.
Approval must be received from world football's law-making body, the IFAB (International Football Association Board), before the move can go ahead but it would permit teams to make an extra change when ties go beyond regulation time.
The format was trialled during this summer's Copa America and will be introduced to the FA Cup alongside the decision that all quarter-finals will be decided on the day, rather than heading for a replay in the event of a draw.
FA chief executive Martin Glenn said: "The Emirates FA Cup is renowned for its great history and tradition but, as the game’s governing body, it is important The FA continues to look at how it can further add to the drama and spectacle of a competition loved by millions around the world.
"With The Cup now adopting a straight knockout format from the quarter-finals onwards, the introduction of a fourth substitute in extra time will bring extra intrigue and interest.
"Also, from a technical point of view, it will be interesting to see how managers use the chance to make an additional substitution in such high-profile games and the impact it has on the final result.
"Player welfare and being mindful of the number of games people play at the elite level has also been a consideration."
This year's competition, featuring 736 clubs, will begin next weekend with 184 extra preliminary rounds taking place.
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