Sunderland, League One and football heads into unchartered territory with major questions unanswered

It was late on Thursday night that football’s governing bodies finally began to appreciate the scale of what was unfolding before them.
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Despite suggestions that they would move games behind-closed-doors, they had earlier in the day stated that games would go ahead as normal this weekend.

Key to that call was advice from the government, who, despite moving their coronavirus plan to the ‘delay’ phase, insisted that there remained ‘no medical rationale’ for cancelling sporting events.

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That remains the case, but everything changed when Mikel Arteta was tested positive for COVID-19.

Sunderland's fixtures have been postponed until April 3rd at the earliestSunderland's fixtures have been postponed until April 3rd at the earliest
Sunderland's fixtures have been postponed until April 3rd at the earliest

That was followed a couple of hours later by similar confirmation from Chelsea regarding Callum Hudson-Odoi.

The knock-on effect throughout the game was immediate and considerable.

Portsmouth, for example, were now concerned given that Arsenal had visited Fratton Park for an FA Cup clash less than two weeks previous.

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Crucially, the government had also changed their advice regarding self-isolation.

Now, anyone displaying symptoms was advised to stay at home for at least seven days.

This quickly began to affect many clubs, with Peterborough United one of many to reveal that they had players now in isolation.

The pressure grew and the key governing bodies acted quickly.

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There was now a clear risk to the integrity of their competitions, but most importantly, the welfare of its members.

For supporters, clubs, players and staff, a suspension was the only option.

What comes next is unclear.

As it stands, action is due to resume in the first weekend of April, but a number of figures in the game, including within League One, have expressed doubt as to whether that is realistic.

An extension to the postponement remains a distinct possibility and it leaves Sunderland, their fellow League One clubs, and teams throughout the pyramid, moving into unchartered territory.

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There is a resolve to try and complete the season, however that is done.

The financial implications of not resolving questions surrounding promotion and relegation are severe and all recognise that they may indeed be insurmountable.

Numerous key figures in the division and throughout the EFL have also expressed their concern about the financial impact that the postponement is likely to have, given that they are far more reliant on gate income than teams in the top tier.

As it stands, the EFL board are set to meet next week and after that, more detail should be available on the contingency plans they have been working on.

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Their meeting will follow an even more important summit held by UEFA on Tuesday.

If, as expected, that meeting rules that EURO 2020 should be postponed until next summer, leagues throughout Europe may be given crucial time and space to extend their seasons into the summer.

Of course, that could raise yet more questions, such as whether loan deals need to be extended, and what is to be done about players whose contract expires at the end of June, if this campaign’s matches are still being played then.

These, though, are surmountable issues, and the game now has the time it needs to take stock.

The reality is that for an extended period, football, quite rightly, is going to take a backseat.