League order replay

The Football League last night ordered West Ham to replay their Worthington Cup quarter-final against Aston Villa. The Hammers had fielded an ineligible player, Manny Omoyinmi, during Wednesday's penalty shoot-out win at Upton Park.

The Football League last night ordered West Ham to replay their Worthington Cup quarter-final against Aston Villa. The Hammers had fielded an ineligible player, Manny Omoyinmi, during Wednesday's penalty shoot-out win at Upton Park.

A spokesman said: "The Football League confirmed this evening that, following discussions with both clubs, the Worthington Cup tie between West Ham United and Aston Villa will be restaged at Upton Park during the week commencing 10 January. This follows a breach of cup rules by West Ham. The League paid tribute to the two clubs involved for their assistance in determining this matter, and for bringing about the most equitable solution to a very sensitive situation. Further details including the new date, will be confirmed next week."

Omoyinmi had played for Gillingham twice in an earlier round of the competition while on loan at the Kent club, and was therefore cup-tied for Wednesday's match. Omoyinmi made an appearance as a substitute eight minutes from the end of extra-time.

The Football League's decision came hours after West Ham manager Harry Redknapp insisted his club should not be kicked out of the competition. Redknapp claimed he had never known Omoyinmi was ineligible. Villa had immediately demanded a rematch when the incident came to light on Friday.