EFL chief gives major update on football's return in detailed open letter to Sunderland supporters

The Chairman of the EFL has told supporters in an open letter that when football returns, it is ‘likely’ to be behind-closed-doors.
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Rick Parry last week wrote to clubs to tell them to prepare for a possible return to training on May 16, with the governing body hopeful that the current campaign can be completed in the summer months over a 56-day period.

The campaign is currently postponed indefinitely and will remain so until government advice on the COVID-19 outbreak changes.

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Parry told supporters that the EFL are working on plans to ensure that any games played behind closed doors will be streamed into homes across the country.

The Chairman of the EFL has issued a major update to supporters on the future of the current campaignThe Chairman of the EFL has issued a major update to supporters on the future of the current campaign
The Chairman of the EFL has issued a major update to supporters on the future of the current campaign

“To give you an honest assessment of the current situation; the point at which you will be able to attend games again remains unclear,” he wrote.

“Please be assured, however, 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.

“And whilst we are unfortunately without the presence of the hundreds of thousands of supporters who pass through EFL turnstiles each week, we will endeavour to bring live football direct into your homes once it returns. Plans are continuing to be worked up for all games to be broadcast either via our broadcast partners, iFollow or equivalent Club streaming services. We will update you on this once we know when matches will recommence.”

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Parry acknowledged the significant financial challenge that is going to pose for clubs in the lower leagues, many of whom are hugely dependent on matchday income.

To that end, dialogue continues with players towards delivering ‘medium to long-term solutions’ on wages that can help ease the burden on clubs during what is an immensely challenging period.

Parry again insisted that the goal remains to complete the current season, rather than bring it to an early halt.

“The contribution to football’s finances made by match-going supporters should not be underestimated,” he wrote.

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“It is critical to the business model of league football. Perhaps the biggest challenge right now is not knowing when we will be able to reintroduce football in front of crowds. We can only hope that the situation develops in such a way that we will be able to do with the shortest possible break.

“With or without spectators, delivering a successful conclusion to the 2019/20 season remains our goal to ensure the integrity of our competitions. This, of course, means that a number of factors – including when, where and within what timeframe fixtures will be played – must be given careful consideration in line with Government advice.

“Similar factors must also be taken into account when agreeing an approach towards player training and testing, not least the appropriate level of medical resource and creation of an effective and efficient medical matchday protocol.

“As we’ve previously stated, the health and wellbeing of our Clubs, their players and staff, and you – the fans – remains our first priority, and so you can appreciate that we want to give thorough and rigorous thought to these matters.

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“From the outset, we have committed to regular dialogue with each of these groups, as well as the Government, in order to tackle the challenges we face as effectively as possible. As well as taking into account the current climate in terms of public opinion, including those views of fans, we are regularly taking ideas and suggestions from our clubs.

“Aside from two catastrophic World Wars, this pandemic is arguably the most challenging issue to have affected football since the League was founded 132 years ago. Our Clubs have been left with significant outgoings while facing a sudden loss of income. With this in mind, I’m sure you will be aware of talk about wages and deferrals. Good progress is being made in these areas, with a view to this assisting in delivering medium to long-term solutions that protect our game for years to come.

“As I said when I arrived, the EFL and its Clubs matter to many people, but most of all to the supporters. It is natural, at this stage, that you will have many questions, and we will endeavour to continue to provide answers and solutions, but we must do so with your health – as well as that of the entire nation - in mind.

“I thank you for your patience so far and ask for more of the same; this is a serious situation which is changing by the day, and one which requires informed and considered decisions. The next few weeks will bring more clarity when it comes to our operational plans and, as always, we’ll look to maintain regular communication.”

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They are still receiving full pay from the club as it awaits further developments on the current campaign.

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