EFL: We’re not looking at a ‘circuit-breaker’

THE EFL say they do not intend to have a so-called “circuit-breaker” in their schedule of matches.

The decision, announced yesterday afternoon, follows a similar announcement from the Premier League.

Matches in the three EFL divisions and the Carabao Cup will therefore go ahead as scheduled with fixtures to be played in circumstances in which it is safe to do so.

Clubs will have to continue to go ahead if they have 14 available players including a goalkeeper, as previously decreed.

Obviously, this does not mean games will not continue to be postponed but the EFL say there is optimism that disruption can be minimised following implementation of their “red” protocols, a daily testing regime and the vaccination rollout.

EFL chief executive Trevor Birch said: “Throughout the pandemic, our two priorities have been ensuring the welfare of those involved in EFL competitions and ensuring the fixture schedule can continue where it is safe to do so.

“We will continue to work with clubs, authorities and other agencies to monitor the Covid-19 case rate and be prepared to respond accordingly, yet for now the view remains that we can continue to deliver games safely where clubs have sufficient healthy personnel in place, on and off the pitch.

“With club mitigation measures, the mass adoption of booster jabs and Covid certification now required for larger crowds, we are sure many fans will continue to feel confident in attending matches over the Christmas period and we look forward to welcoming them.”

Burton Albion are due to meet Sheffield Wednesday away on Boxing Day and host Bolton Wanderers on December 29 and Crewe Alexandra on January 1.