Here's how fans can watch Cats as EFL provide streaming update

The EFL has confirmed streaming plans to enable Sunderland fans to watch Phil Parkinson’s side in action ahead of the new season.

The 2020-21 campaign kicks-off with the home Carabao Cup clash against Hull City a week on Saturday before the League One season starts the following Saturday with the visit of Bristol Rovers.

All games are currently being played behind-closeddoors due to the Covid-19 pandemic though there are hopes some supporters will be allowed in from October onwards if trials are successful.

In the meantime, fans will be able to stream games with further details announced by the EFL in a new flexible temporary arrangement with broadcaster Sky Sports.

It had already been announced Sunderland season ticket holders would get access toastream,withdetailsnowreleased of how non-season card holders can pay for a stream.

A statement read: “The broadcaster will show 130 live EFL league matches throughout season 2020/21, kicking-off with Watford v Middlesbrough on Friday, September 11, 2020 before another two fixtures are televised throughout the opening weekend.

“And whilst the doors remain shut to fans, or with limited spectators allowed through the turnstiles, an arrangement exists whereby all matches that are NOT LIVE on Sky Sports will be available to stream by clubs on iFollow (or club equivalent service), for a match pass price of £10.

“In addition, season ticket holders will, under the newly agreed framework, be provided access to all HOME GAMES, subject to the agreement of the clubwherethesupporterholds a season ticket.”

T h e m at c h by m at c h streaming and season ticket offer is a temporary measure that has only been put in place whilst clubs operate at a zero or reduced capacity as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. It will be reviewed in early October.

EFL Chief Executive David Baldwin said: “There is no argument that attending live matches is what the League, its clubs and fans want to see and, clearly,theoverriding objective is to get supporters back into stadiums as soon as it is safe to do so. It’s important that whilst the doors remain fully, or part shut, we ensure there is the ability for fans of all EFL clubs to be able to gain access and watch their team.”

It’s been confirmed that f i r s t rou n d C a rabao C up matches that are not selected by Sky Sports will also be eligible for clubs to stream.