The EFL, along with the Premier League and women’s professional game, has today announced a further postponement of any possible return to football action until April 30 at the earliest, due to the ongoing coronavirus crisis.
This replaces last week’s initial date, halting games until April 3 at the earliest, and it would seem certain that any resumption of competitive matches will also be well beyond the end of next month.
A statement issued following a meeting of the appropriate leagues and other organisations today, said:
‘The FA, Premier League, EFL and women’s professional game, together with the PFA and LMA, understand we are in unprecedented times and our thoughts are with everyone affected by COVID-19.
We are united in our commitment to finding ways of resuming the football season and ensuring all domestic and European club league and cup matches are played as soon as it is safe and possible to do so.
The FA’s Rules and Regulations state that “the season shall terminate not later than June 1” and “each competition shall, within the limit laid down by The FA, determine the length of its own playing season”. However, The FA’s Board has agreed for this limit to be extended indefinitely for the 2019/20 season in relation to Professional Football.
Additionally, we have collectively agreed that the professional game in England will be further postponed until no earlier than 30 April.
The progress of COVID-19 remains unclear and we can reassure everyone the health and welfare of players, staff and supporters are our priority. We will continue to follow Government advice and work collaboratively to keep the situation under review and explore all options available to find ways of resuming the season when the conditions allow.
We would all like to re-emphasise that our thoughts are with everyone affected by COVID-19.’