'Here's the rumours cleared up': Sunderland's promotion rivals issue a firm stance ahead of crucial League One vote

The third tier campaign has been suspended since March 13 after the outbreak of coronavirus, with hundreds of outstanding fixtures across the EFL yet to be played.

But it is understood that League One and Two clubs are now prepared to call time on the season, with club calls scheduled for later this week ahead of a potential vote on how to conclude the season – such as on a points per game basis – set to take place next week.

And while a number of clubs – such as Wycombe Wanderers – have been vocal in their desire to see the season brought to an end, there are several who still want to play.

They include Oxford United, whose manager Karl Robinson took a firm stance on the matter.

"I think it's important the fans know what our decision will be," he told the club's website.

"I've heard so may rumours over the last 48 hours, seven days 14 days, well here's the rumours cleared up - Oxford United want to play.

"If it's safe, Thames Valley Police support it, the government allow, if the EFL want it and other teams want it then Oxford United's vote will be to continue the season at a date that's safe for everybody, understanding that if it gets to a certain date we can't spoil two seasons.

"We've also mentioned if people don't want to play, we respect whatever their motives are.”

Oxford actually stand to benefit from a number of ‘sporting merit’ solutions should the league not be completed. For example, if a weighted points-per-game basis was employed then they would be promoted in third place.

But Robinson insists his side still want to play on regardless of any off-field calculations.

"People might say our motives are we want to go up, which is why we want to play,” he added.

"But I'm also hearing there's different permutations where if we don't play we still could.

"We'd much rather play, it's that simple."