Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Bristol Post
Bristol Post
Sport
David Byrom

EFL issue fresh statement in response to coronavirus postponement speculation over how season will end

The EFL have refused to comment on speculation over how the season may end.

On Friday, the EFL and Premier League both took the unprecedented step of suspending the football season until at least April 3 due to the coronavirus.

It has led to plenty of speculation over what comes next, with some suggesting the season be cancelled, whilst others have argued the table should be taken as is.

EFL chairman Rick Parry (Getty)

Yet, in a statement, the EFL said it is inappropriate to comment on these situations - and that people's health is more important.

It said: "The health and well-being of EFL staff, players, club employees and supporters is of paramount importance and will be key to the decisions made by football during what is clearly an unprecedented situation facing our game.

"It is with that in the forefront of the League’s mind that it notes the intense speculation that has appeared across the local, national and international media over the weekend.

"Whilst the League and its board understand there is a strong desire from both the media and general public to understand what may happen next, there have, at this current time, been no decisions taken.

"The League also feels it inappropriate to respond to the many hypothetical solutions being suggested whilst the many unknowns remain. Given the fast paced environment and parameters we are currently working within, it is simply not practical to give a running commentary on what may happen.

"In the immediate short term we will continue with our contingency planning to deal with the implications the outbreak of Covid-19 has presented the EFL and its Clubs, in addition to liaising with the Government, health authorities and football partners.

"A further update will be given once the EFL Board has met this week.

"In the meantime, we wish the football and wider community well and urge all to follow the guidance from the Government provided by Public Health England if presented with any symptoms."

EFL chairman Rick Parry reiterated the need for people to stay calm over the pandemic.

He said: "These are indeed challenging times for the League, its Clubs and the game as a whole.

"However, now is the time for cool heads and calm reflection, rather than speculation as we look to steer our competitions and Clubs through this period of uncertainty."

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.