Cats could lose six-figure sum if season resumes behind closed doors

Sunderland could be set to lose a substantial six-figure sum if the EFL goes behind closed doors.

EFL chiefs have written to all 72 clubs advising them that football is likely to be played behind closed doors when it eventually resumes – with plans in place to complete the campaign during an eight-week period.

Such a move would see all clubs deprived of some vital matchday income and, for Sunderland, the losses could top £850,000.

Using data from the club’s most recent accounts, which cover the 2017/18 season, Sunderland’s losses could top that sum if football goes behind closed doors for the remainder of the 2019/20 season.

That’s based on the fact that they pocketed approximately £285,000 per game during that season, with ticketing revenue not thought to have significantly fallen since that campaign.

The Black Cats will not be as hard hit as some other League One clubs should this drastic action be taken though, with a number of third tier sides having considerably more home fixtures left to play.

And indeed, Sunderland’s matchday income is believed to represent a smaller percentage of their overall turnover than some of their rivals.

The club’s latest accounts are due to be submitted by April 30, but this could be pushed back by three months.

The EFL have pledged to support clubs financially should games be forced to be played in front of empty stadiums.

Meanwhile, Sunderland fans have reacted to the EFL proposal less than enthusiastically on social media...

@shotb83: “So what happens if one team member falls ill with the virus? Whole squad has to isolate for 14 days etc. Completely unrealistic and delusional.”

@OwenDav61960503: “They should just abandoned the season because we are not going to be out of this for a long time yet! The EFL should do a package for all of the club's to help them get through this”

@mdavies4444: “Could be done, bearing in mind preseason takes place over July anyway Start 2020/21 in October and end it in April, scrap EFL Trophy and possibly League Cup for one season. The FA and Premier League can compensate third, fourth, fifth and lower tier clubs any missing revenue.”

@jonny8686: “The EFL are delusional”