English League Football to complete season behind close doors, with live tv coverage

While English Premiership clubs are still in discussions on whether and when to finish off the season, the Football League’s lower echelons have taken the decisive step to finish off the season at the earliest possible. The Chairman of the EFL, which includes the second-tier Championship as well as League One and League Two, announced today that all games across these competitions will be broadcast live online or on television and will be played behind closed doors.

However, Parry gave no indications of when this will happen, with the British Government yesterday further extending the lockdown by another three weeks, at least until 7^th May.

The EFL Chairman confirmed that fans will not be able to attend the remaining games, with match-going supporters losing out on a significant – and the most crucial stage – of the season. However, efforts are being made to give fans the opportunity to follow their favourite teams and stars from the comfort and safety of their home. This was possible after that the EFL managed to secure coverage for all games after discussions with iFollow, its broadcast partners, as well as with club streaming services.

In a letter sent to the clubs a very indicative return to training date for players has been scheduled for mid-May, assuming the level of lockdown is eased after the present extension. Clubs have been notified to prepare themselves to resume competitive matches at short notice.

In an open letter to football fans, Parry explained: “Please be assured, that we are going to welcome you back to stadiums as soon as it is safe to do so. Your contribution to the matchday experience and atmospheres created in stadia up and down the country is something we should never take for granted. Unfortunately, I cannot tell you today when football will resume, though whenever we do return, matches are likely to be played without crowds.”