After speculation surrounding the Emirates FA Cup and non-league sides in the 2020/21 campaign, we are delighted to confirm that Whitby Town will be entering next season's tournament.

Last year saw Chris Hardy's side come so close to the first round proper but there was late heartbreak in a replay against Stourbridge after the Blues found themselves 2-0 up in the Midlands.

However some fantastic memories were created along the way, one of which saw the club make national headlines with their stunning 3-1 victory over Gloucester City with a makeshift side.

So what's different for next season? In truth, not a lot in terms of the playing side of matters so here's a run through of what is set to happen in the next edition of the world's greatest club competition.

For the Seasiders and fellow step three clubs 15 teams will be required to start their cup campaign in the extra-preliminary round with others not entering until the first qualifying round.

The 2019/20 season was the first time that sides from our level had to play in the additional round and this was based on their league positions from the previous campaign, with the lowest ranked sides being brought in at this stage.

But with the Football Association (FA) deciding to make our last year null and void it remains to be seen as to how these places will be determined.

All we know for the time being is that more should be revealed on Monday 3rd August and this date will also see the draw dates confirmed for the FA Cup, as well as the Buildbase FA Trophy which Town will also compete in.