Swindon Town removed from Vertu Trophy after fielding ineligible players
Luton Town will now play Plymouth Argle in the Quarter-Final of the Vertu Trophy
Last updated 4th Feb 2026
Swindon Town has been expelled from this season's Vertu Trophy for breaching EFL Regulations and Trophy Rules.
The EFL said an Independent Disciplinary Commission determined that Swindon Town fielded two ineligible players in their 2-1 victory over Luton Town during the Round of 16 tie on 13th January 2026.
The club has also been issued a fine of £40,000, with £20,000 of it suspended, which will be automatically payable if the Club fields or names on a team sheet an ineligible player before the end of the 2026/27 season.
Oliver Clarke, who was serving a seven-game suspension from the Football Association, was played, and Aaron Drinan, who participated in the second half, was not listed on the official team sheet.
As a result, Luton Town will advance to the Quarter-Final of the Vertu Trophy and host Plymouth Argyle.
The match date is expected to be confirmed in the next 48 hours, following a request from Plymouth Argyle that it not take place on 10th February 2026 as initially planned.
Swindon Town have said they are "deeply disappointed" with the decision but respect "the disciplinary process and the authority of the Commission."
The club said in a statement: "We strongly believe this outcome is unfair and do not agree with the findings. That said, we respect the disciplinary process and the authority of the Commission.
"Right now, our focus has to be on moving forward together as a football club. We will take time to reflect, learn from what has happened, and make sure we continue to meet the highest standards in everything we do.
"Above all, our priority remains with our players, staff, and supporters. We will keep backing them fully as we push on and compete with everything we have in our remaining fixtures this season."