This is exactly what financial support the EFL have offered to Cats
The EFL last night announced an emergency relief package to support all clubs through the ongoing crisis.
Fixtures have been postponed across all divisions until April 3rd at the earliest, though the expectation is that this is likely to be extended significantly.
A number of key figures at clubs throughout the leagues had raised concerns about the short and long term impact that this would have on their finances, and the EFL board met on Thursday to discuss their response.
Their £50 million package includes the immediate payment of all remaining ‘basic award payments’ for the current season, as well as the ability to loan from an interest free credit facility.
The BBC have seen the letter sent to clubs on the back of the announcement, and report that the ‘basic award payment’ due to Sunderland and their rivals comes in at £252,200.
The basic award payment is a flat figure for all clubs in the division, staggered over the course of the season.
This is being advanced immediately to help with any short-term cashflow issues.
The letter also states that
Sunderland and other clubs in League One will, should they choose, be able to borrow up to £182,800 from the loan facility.
Sunderland are also set to benefit from the EFL futures fund.
Lile the basic award payment, the EFL have, according to the BBC, told clubs that these payments will be distributed immediately, rather than at the end of the season.
The EFL futures is a pot of £1 million, used as a reward for clubs who field players below the age of 20 who are qualified to play for England (or Wales, in the case of Cardiff City, Swansea City, and Newport County).
Sunderland are certain to benefit given that Denver Hume has made 38 appearances in all competitions this season.
The EFL also pledged on Thursday night to help clubs seek support from the government.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak unveiled a £330 billion package earlier this week to help businesses through the COVID-19 crisis.
Answering questions in parliament, he said lower league clubs would be entitled to support, on issues such as tax payments.