Football’s lockdown is extended further
CARDIFF City, Swansea City and Newport County’s 2019/20 EFL campaigns will not resume until it is safe to do so, it has been confirmed.
The Championship, League One and League Two seasons were on hold until April 30, but have now been suspended until further notice because of the severity of the coronavirus outbreak.
The EFL’s statement runs parallel to that of the Premier League’s, who have also suspended their season until it is safe for matches to resume as well.
A statement from the EFL yesterday said: “As a result of the ongoing Covid19 pandemic the EFL, Premier League, FA and Barclays FA Women’s Super League and FA Women’s Championship has today collectively agreed to postpone its football competitions until it is safe to resume.
“Football is committed in supporting the Government’s efforts in tackling the Covid-19 outbreak and the staging of football matches in this country. It is clearly something that simply cannot happen at this time.
“The thoughts of everyone associated with the EFL and its member Clubs are with anyone currently affected by the coronavirus.
“The situation will be kept under constant review with matches only returning at an appropriate point and based on the latest guidance provided by the relevant Government departments and health authorities.
“The EFL also notes and appreciates the decision taken today by the Premier League in respect of the shortterm financial relief it is to provide EFL Clubs through the advancement of solidarity payments, parachute payments and Academy Grants.
“These actions will have a positive impact on individual Clubs across our three divisions at a difficult and uncertain time.”
The EFL statement came on the back of the expected announcement from the Premier League.
The Premier League held a conference call yesterday outlining their plans, with a latest update having now been confirmed.
Premier League clubs have unanimously agreed to consult with their players concerning a 30 per cent wage deferral to assist with the payment of non-playing staff during the pandemic.
The league also confirmed an immediate advance of £125million to the EFL and the National League.
The statement released by the Premier League said: “At a meeting of Premier League Shareholders, clubs discussed in detail how to respond to the Covid-19 global pandemic.
“First and foremost, it was reaffirmed that the overriding priority is to aid the health and wellbeing of the nation and our communities, including players, coaches, managers, club staff and supporters.
“It was acknowledged that the Premier League will not resume at the beginning of May – and that the 2019/20 season will only return when it is safe and appropriate to do so.
“The restart date is under constant review with all stakeholders, as we all work together through this very, very challenging time.
“The Premier League is working closely with the whole of professional football in this country, as well as with the Government, public agencies and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the game achieves a collaborative solution.
“With this, there is a combined objective for all remaining domestic league and cup matches to be played, enabling us to maintain the integrity of each competition. However, any return to play will only be with the full support of the Government and when medical guidance allows.”