This newsitem has been supplied by PSV.nl
PSV MEDIA â€' Although PSV earned an emphatic 3-0 win over Young Heerenveen on Wednesday night, they have been disqualified from the Dutch Cup tournament for fielding defender Manuel da Costa, who was not eligible after he had picked up two yellow cards last season. 'This is so embarrassing; we can never justify this inexcusable mistake', admitted PSV General Manager Jan Reker.
Da Costa was handed a one-match ban last season, after he had been cautioned during cup ties against Go Ahead Eagles and NAC Breda. Da Costa, however, was included in PSV's starting line-up on Wednesday night, so PSV have been disqualified from the Dutch Cup tournament in accordance with the relevant regulations. The KNVB, the Royal Dutch Football Association, informed PSV of the sanction on Thursday morning.
'This is an inexcusable blunder', said Jan Reker, who did not hide his embarrassment. 'I have immediately taken the decision to alter our administrative affairs procedures. We will make a thorough investigation and believe me, you haven't heard the last of that', said Reker who added he felt sorry for the players, coaching staff, fans and sponsors. 'We always compete for silverware, so I really, really regret not being able to win the Dutch Cup this season.'