Grimsby Town Fined £20,000 for Fielding Ineligible Player in Cup Upset Against Manchester United

League Two club Grimsby Town has been handed a £20,000 fine after fielding an ineligible player during their shock Carabao Cup victory over Manchester United.

Grimsby stunned the Premier League giants last week, forcing a 2-2 draw in normal time before winning on penalties. However, controversy followed after it emerged that midfielder Clarke Oduor, who joined on loan from Bradford City just a day earlier, had been registered one minute and 59 seconds after the 12:00 BST transfer deadline.

The English Football League (EFL) confirmed the punishment on Tuesday, noting that the club had self-reported the breach.

“The club’s non-compliance was not deliberate with no intention to deceive or mislead,” the EFL said. “Half of the fine, £10,000, is payable immediately, while the remaining £10,000 is suspended until the end of the season.”

In a statement, Grimsby Town admitted the error was caused by a computer glitch, which delayed the submission.

“We accept the fine imposed and fully recognise the importance of adhering to competition rules. This mistake was not deliberate, and we acted transparently by reporting it as soon as it came to light,” the club said.

The Mariners added that internal processes had since been reviewed to prevent future mistakes.

Manchester United have declined to comment on the matter.

The EFL highlighted that the decision was consistent with previous rulings, pointing to similar fines issued to Liverpool, Accrington Stanley, and Sunderland for comparable registration breaches.

Despite the sanction, Grimsby Town’s historic victory stands, and they will face Championship side Sheffield Wednesday in the third round later this month.