Sunderland's League One rivals pushing for October start as Blackpool confirm Jerry Yates signing

EFL clubs are expected to meet later this week to discuss proposals for the 2020-21 campaign, with most understood to be in favour of the September 12 restart date.

However, the Shropshire Star report Shrewsbury have put forward a suggestion to delay the restart of the league season until October so that domestic cup ties can be held as ‘pilot fixtures’ for some fans to be allowed back into stadiums prior to that.

It follows the latest update from the Government at the end of last week in which they announced they were hoping to get some fans back into sporting stadiums by October, though tests will need to be carried out to ensure it is safe.

The Shropshire Star report: “And Shrewsbury feel that the best opportunity to do so, without a big effect on league attendances, is to move Carabao Cup and Leasing.com Trophy ties forward to September 12 until September 30 and start league action in October.

“With lower crowds for Carabao Cup and Leasing.com Trophy competitions anyway, Town feel they would be suitable for pilot schemes on reduced capacities – without affecting season ticket holders.”

Meanwhile, Blackpool have announced they have signed in-demand striker Jerry Yates from Rotherham United for an undisclosed fee. He had been linked with Sunderland.

The 23-year-old has joined on a three-year-deal with Blackpool having an option to extend for a further year.