ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ON CORONAVIRUS CRISIS

WHY IS APRIL 3 THE DATE TO PLAY AGAIN?

It was the logical date to all involved in the discussions given it is after the next international break. So, effectively, they’re postponing the competition by two weeks. Depending on how the virus continues to spread within football and how the Government guidelines change, the date will be re-evaluated as April 3 approaches. According to sources, the expectation is for the postponement of games to be be extended possibly into June.

WILL PLAYERS STILL BE TRAINING WITH CLUBS?

That will vary between clubs. One Premier League squad have been given until Monday week off. But players at other clubs are expected to report during the postponement period.

HOW ARE THEY GOING TO COMPLETE THE SEASON?

The best-case scenario is that the season recommences on April 3 and the fixtures are fulfilled with as little disruption and delay as possible. That scenario, however, appears unlikely. Possibilities include ending the season now with the current league positions standing or declaring the campaign null and void.

WHERE DOES THIS LEAVE EURO 2020?

As reported by Sportsmail yesterday, it is looking increasingly likely that Euro 2020 will be played in 2021, which would clear the summer schedule to complete domestic leagues and European club competitions.

WILL LIVERPOOL NOW BE AWARDED THE TITLE?

Yes, if the Premier League rule that the season ends now and all the points accumulated still stand. That would, however, infuriate those who miss out on European qualification and those who are relegated. It could also raise significant legal questions for clubs who fail to reach their targets given games are still left to be played.

IS THERE A CHANCE THE SEASON IS SCRAPPED?

Yes, if the season is ruled null and void. This would delight clubs in relegation danger but could lead to messy lawsuits for clubs on the brink of promotion. Liverpool wouldn’t be too happy, either.

WILL THERE BE PROMOTION AND RELEGATION?

If the season is deemed complete by the EFL then yes. If null and void then no.

WILL SEASON TICKET HOLDERS GET REFUNDS?

This is a grey area. Many clubs run schemes which give fans access to a certain amount of cup games as part of their season ticket, and given that the games are being cancelled rather than going behind closed doors, it is likely to simply be a case of rearranging rather than issuing refunds.

WILL FOOTBALL LEAGUE CLUBS SURVIVE?

That is a concern, indeed EFL bosses have called a crisis meeting for next week aimed at easing the burden on clubs under financial threat. Cash-strapped clubs from the Championship down rely heavily on match-day revenue, including gate receipts, to survive financially. The postponement has left those teams under major threat.