'Monday is D-Day' – Catlin adamant clubs will finally get answers

Portsmouth’s chief executive is confident League One clubs will finally get a definitive answer over the 2019-20 campaign on Monday after weeks of uncertainty and limbo.

Clubs in the third tier are divided over how the season should be concluded with those in the running for a play-off spot in favour of resuming the season, in the main, while a significant chunk want to see the season curtailed for financial reasons and a points-per-game table used instead to settle promotion and relegation matters.

While the Premier League and Championship are set to restart and League Two clubs pushing for curtailment, it is League One that has caused headaches for clubs and the governing bodies in recent weeks with clubs split, tensions mounting amid serious concerns over finances.

Pompey CEO Mark Catlin is convinced, however, that Monday will prove to be DDay, with clubs voting over the coming days.

Catlin told The News: “If you follow the EFL release from late last week, voting will take place from now and then finish on Monday.

“As I understand it, the result will be given out at that point. “Monday is D-Day. “I am very hopeful at that point, bar any potential legal challenges, we can get on and finish this season one way or another.

“All clubs have been consistent in believing a threeweek window is required for training and getting players back up to speed.

“Doing the maths, you would think if League One restarted or there was a playoff situation, you’re probably looking at the end of June and early July to play.

“Still, I would hope that things would be a lot clearer by Monday.

“The Premier League have made that decision, as have the Championship and League Two.

“It’s just which way League One is going to go.”

Sunderland’s stance has always been firm, that the season should be played to a conclusion on the pitch.

The only hope the Black Cats have of winning promotion is if the season restarts as they are currently outside the play-off places.