The three clubs also reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup, with the two Uniteds paired together while Chelsea faced off against reigning league champions Liverpool.

The season ended in controversy and ignominy after eight Chelsea players were alleged by manager Tommy Docherty to have broken a curfew imposed prior to their penultimate match, resulting in those responsible being sent back to London in disgrace.

[1] The Blues' heavily-weakened side were thrashed 6–2 by Burnley, and defeat to Blackpool in their final match meant Chelsea had to settle for a third place finish, five points behind the top two.

However, some consolation was gained from success in the nascent Football League Cup.

Chelsea overcame Birmingham City, Notts County, Swansea Town, Workington and Aston Villa, before beating Leicester City 3–2 on aggregate in the final to claim the first domestic cup title in the club's history.