League One boss reveals why he's backing plans to end the season - which would see Sunderland's promotion hopes scuppered

Clarity on the future of the third tier season is expected next week, with clubs set to vote on whether to curtail the campaign or to play the outstanding fixtures.

While a host of clubs, including Sunderland, are keen to see fixtures completed, the growing consensus is that the season will end – meaning the Black Cats will be sentenced to a third season in League One.

And Ricketts believes such a decision would be the correct one, as he feels the financial implications of completing the season – a six-figure sum will be required to fund testing of players and staff alone – means fulfilling the remaining fixtures in unrealistic.

Indeed, the Shrewsbury manager insists that ensuring clubs survive is more important than competing for promotion.

“I think it’s a logical conclusion given the finances involved,” said Ricketts, speaking to the Shropshire Star.

“The Premier League is a different entity and can afford it. The Championship is similar, with so much riding on it, ending in the most valuable game in world football.

“With our league the financial gains of going up aren’t enough to cover the cost of 23 teams trying to do so.

“I understand every club has to fight for its own point of view,” he continued.

“I think there are bigger things at stake with clubs fighting for their survival rather than whether they get promoted or not.”