League committed to return of supporters

The EFL remains committed to welcoming back all supporters to stadiums for the start of the 2021/22 season, it has said.

However, chief executive Trevor Birch says a ‘hybrid’ streaming model is also being considered should full capacity crowds not be allowed.

Up to 10,000 fans were able to attend EFL play-off fixtures at the end of the 2020/21 campaign, but full capacities have not been permitted since March 2020.

There are hopes measures prohibiting that will be lifted in the coming weeks though, with the league themselves keen to welcome back fans.

Birch, speaking to FC Business Magazine, said: “The EFL’s aim is to begin the 2021/22 season with full stadia and we are keen to do all we can with Government and other stakeholders to achieve that aim.

“We’re following the government road map and June 21 is when life should be back to normal any by the start of next season we hope to be back to full capacity, but we’re not blind to the fact there may be local outbreaks, and we are working hand in hand with clubs and authorities.

“We are doing everything we can.”

Streaming options have proved popular this season and Birch says they will continue into the new campaign.

He said: “The support of fans has been phenomenal.

“Streaming will continue, and depending on where we end up with crowds we may be required to look at a hybrid model if we’re not back to full capacity, but our aspiration and focus is clear: we want and need to be back with full crowds from next season.”