EFL give Leeds United new date for earliest possible return to training

At an EFL board meeting today discussions took place around the practicalities of hosting fixtures during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A statement released tonight says clubs will be consulted before a way forward is decided.

The EFL have admitted that the financial implications for clubs will not be mitigated by the completion of fixtures alone.

And even if a coronavirus testing programme can be put in place, something the EFL insists is necessary before action can be resumed, clubs will not return to training grounds this weekend as originally planned.

A spokesperson said: "The EFL Board has met today to further consider the many complex financial and operational matters resulting out of the COVID-19 crisis, including how the 2019/20 campaign is concluded.

"While there is much debate and discussion taking place publicly and privately regarding what should, or could, happen next, the EFL will continue to undertake consultation with our members before the next steps are determined.

"Current attention is clearly on the immediate next steps, but the long-term impact on the League and its Clubs remains as stark as previously outlined, and solutions are still required to fill the financial hole left by the crisis. The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic will not be rectified simply by a return to play behind closed doors.

"In addition, the EFL is mindful of the pressing need for clarity in a number of areas, including the practicalities and timeframes of clubs being able to facilitate a return to training. To address this, clubs have today been issued with the latest draft of the EFL’s ‘Return to Training Protocols’, so that they can prepare appropriately.

"However, until all outstanding matters are concluded, including finalising a comprehensive testing programme on matchdays and non-matchdays, the EFL Board has informed its Clubs that a return to training should not take place until 25 May at the earliest.

"Dialogue continues with our colleagues across the footballing and political landscape regarding these and other issues, and the EFL is committed to keeping all relevant parties updated on key decisions and developments as they occur."

Leeds United sat top of the Championship when the season was suspended, with nine games remaining.

Last week the EFL chairman Rick Parry told a Commons Select Committee that his expectation is for relegation from the Premier League and promotion from the Championship to still take place.

And the FA have told the top flight clubs that declaring the season null and void is not an option.