DECISION DUE ON TV PICKS FOR BIG GAMES

FANS will know on Wednesday which games are going to be televised on the penultimate weekend of the season.

It was decided to wait until after the Easter programme in order to ensure the most appropriate matches are picked for broadcast, with promotion and relegation battles still to be decided.

It was also agreed that it was not in the interests of the competition to broadcast matches that have no impact on the outstanding issues of the campaign.

The EFL has worked with Sky Sports to maintain a minimum five-week commitment to the rescheduling of fixtures for TV selection throughout the season in order to ensure that supporters are given as much notice as possible, with the average notification period for 2017/18 in excess of seven weeks (52.5 days).

But, for the penultimate weekend only, the policy has been amended to ensure a minimum three weeks’ notice period is adhered to for the vacant TV slots scheduled for 7.45pm on Friday, April 27 or 5.30pm on Saturday, April 28.

EFL chief executive Shaun Harvey said: “As a result of the many variables in play, the scheduling of fixtures for live television remains a challenge and whilst this will only affect a small number of clubs and their fans, I would like to acknowledge our appreciation for the patience and understanding all have shown in this matter.”

Sky Sports head of football Gary Hughes said: “I’d like to thank the fans, the clubs and the EFL for their flexibility in regard to the penultimate weekend.

“We continue to pride ourselves on providing the best possible coverage, which includes the most relevant matches for fans. We look forward to showcasing the end of another exciting EFL season exclusively live on Sky Sports.”