EFL need to up their game – and quick

WHEN the Football League rebranded themselves as the EFL last summer, it was meant to be the dawn of a bright new era.

But some of their decisions since then have left people wondering if they know what they are doing – and that’s putting it kindly.

Looking back, the warning signs were there. When the Whole Game Solution was first mooted last May, it appeared to catch clubs totally off guard.

They were left wondering where the money was going to come from to cover a potential loss of four home games if divisions were reduced to 20 teams. It immediately created a negative sensation.

Six months down the line and, suddenly, the Whole Game Solution has been scrapped. The EFL suggest it is because the FA didn’t want to move FA Cup games to midweek before of a new overseas broadcasting deal.

But was it ever likely that that those FA Cup ties would be moved from Saturdays? What assurances did the EFL receive from the FA? And where was Plan B? It appears there wasn’t one.

In effect, we’ve had six months of unnecessary turmoil and uncertainty that could have been avoided.

Then there is the Checkatrade Trophy, which has been a public relations disaster with supporters boycotting games, the big boys declining to enter their academy teams and EFL clubs being fined for playing their kids.

Yes, we understand that sometimes things have to change and innovation is good. But there is a sense that the EFL have rushed into things without being fully prepared. There has been a lack of clarity, good judgement and execution.

After these blunders, they need to get their next initiatives spot-on...