Isle of Man Football Association has apologised after the deadline was missed to submit its under-18 side’s entry into the new season’s FA County Youth Cup.

As a result, the side won’t play in the cup that provides its only competitive action of the season, despite appeals to the English FA by its Manx counter-parts.

A statement released by the Isle of Man FA on Thursday said: ’The FA changed the basis of submitting an entry from a specific competition invitation to county FAs, to an online platform. This information was passed on as part of a FA bulletin covering a wide range of different and unrelated issues.

’Unfortunately this resulted in IoMFA missing the deadline for entry and, despite strong representations to the English FA, an application for late entry was refused.

’IoMFA has notified and apologised in writing to all those affected, particularly the players, and have now put plans into place to ensure that this unfortunate situation does not occur in the future.’

The FA is working on securing some alternate fixtures for the teenagers and has already lined up three friendlies for the side against professional academy sides.

The statement continued: ’Already in the diary are agreed fixtures against Burnley, Macclesfield Town and Salford City.

’The games will be played off island on Tuesday, August 20 and Wednesday, August 21.

’These games will provide a really good test for our under-18s team and coaching staff.

’We have recently agreed a three-year sponsorship deal with the Jacksons Group in relation to youth football in the Isle of Man and this support will allow us the opportunity to play in an under-18s’ competitive tournament either in the UK, or possibly further afield in 2020.

’At the time of writing a number of options in this regard are being considered.

’Full details will be provided when all has been agreed.’