IT’S LADIES FIRST FOR SKY

EFL MAY GO NEUTRAL

THE EFL has back-up plans to stage matches at neutral venues if the season cannot be completed at clubs’ own grounds.

The Premier League’s Project Restart aims to play the remaining 92 top-flight games at eight to 10 neutral grounds.

The EFL wants to play the outstanding 326 regular-season matches behind closed doors at the scheduled venues on the fixture list. The League hopes streaming all games live on iFollow – potentially free for season-ticket holders – will deter fans tempted to turn up outside stadiums during matches.

But contingency plans have also been drawn up for different scenarios, including playing multiple fixtures at a smaller number of regional venues.

SKY SPORTS wants to have a female commentator in place for the Premier League restart.

Although Sky has been progressive in championing women in its broadcasting, it has been left to men to provide the commentaries for the big matches. That looks set to change whenever football kicks off again.

Favourite to join main man Martin Tyler in the Sky Sports commentary squad is Caroline Barker (left).

Barker has live commentary experience from her long association with the BBC and Radio 5 Live in particular.