Bali Mumba's loan looks set for early end with hometown club's promotion fate uncertain

Bali Mumba’s first loan looks set to come to an early conclusion after the Northern Premier League signalled its intention to terminate the current season.
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Mumba had been set to finish the current season with hometown club South Shields, and made a major impression in his first appearances.

The 18-year-old scored on both of his starts, helping them build a 12-point lead at the top of the table.

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It is not clear how issues of promotion and relegation will be solved in that division, with the step 3&4 leagues waiting on their decision to be ratified by the FA.

Sunderland youngster Bali Mumba has been on loan at South ShieldsSunderland youngster Bali Mumba has been on loan at South Shields
Sunderland youngster Bali Mumba has been on loan at South Shields

They are also awaiting further updates from the National League on how they wish to proceed, a decision that will have an obvious knock-on effect with regards to promotion or relegation from step 3&4.

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A statement from the Northern Premier League said: “The Northern Premier League has been working alongside its fellow step 3&4 leagues, via the FA Alliance committee, to find a solution for the 2019/20 season that can, ideally, apply across all of the National League System.

“The NPL, Isthmian and Southern Leagues are unanimous in wanting to terminate the 2019/20 season immediately. Whether that is done on the basis of determining the final placings via average points per game, or the season is declared null and void cannot be decided until the National League’s intentions are confirmed.

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“The NPL, Isthmian and Southern Leagues have made the FA aware of their wish to terminate the 2019-20 season, although any such decision has to be ratified by FA council. While this process is on-going, competition issues can then be decided, together with the implications for promotion and relegation.”

Mumba played primarily in an attacking role during his loan spell, drawing praise from joint-manager Lee Picton after scoring a crucial winner away at Nantwich Town.

“He’s so exciting to watch,” Picton said.

“If we were to turn the clock back then I certainly wouldn’t want to have to defend 1v1 against him, that’s for sure.

“His overall contribution, especially with the ball, was fantastic.

“There’s been three or four late tackles on him in the second half, because that was the only way to stop him.”