Black Cats will be able to vote on proposals at crunch EFL meeting

Sunderland will be handed the chance to vote on a series of alternative proposals for settling the League One table following a consultation period between the EFL and clubs.

The EFL board met on Wednesday and have now confirmed that next Tuesday will be the day on which the key issues will be decided. The EFL had initially proposed to clubs that in the event of a curtailment, tables would be settled on a points-per-game basis.

The principles of promotion and relegation would be kept in place, while the playoff places would remain at four teams. A number of clubs subsequently put forward alternatives.

Once the framework is agreed, clubs can then vote within their individual divisions whether to play on or curtail.

One of the proposals on the table will be the suggestion from Tranmere Rovers, that if voted through, would see Sunderland handed the chance to compete in an extended playoff campaign.

Given the widespread opposition throughout the division, removing relegation from League Two is also likely to be considered.

Any changes need to be supported by over 50% of clubs throughout the three divisions, as well as by a majority within the Championship.

An EFL statement read: “The EFL Board met and considered a number of proposals submitted by EFL Clubs in respect of proposed amendments to EFL Regulations in order to determine what will happen in the event the 2019/20 season is curtailed in any EFL Division.

“This now brings an end to a comprehensive consultation phase and Clubs have received formal notice of the meeting which will now take place on Tuesday, June 9, 2020.

“At that meeting Clubs will consider a number of different proposals from both Clubs and the Board of the EFL.”

There remains significant doubt as to whether T ran mere’ splan will receive enough support, with Portsmouth CEO Mark Catlin already stating that his club would vote against it.

“I genuinely believe that, for the greater good of football, we should do all that we can to play – as long as it is safe to do so ,” Cat lin told the Portsmouth News.

“That is what we do, we are a football club.

“From speaking to clubs and owners, I think a lot of people will have already made their minds up.”