EFL chair Rick Parry has issued an open letter to supporters amid the coronavirus crisis, accepting that closed-doors games are likely when the season resumes - but says the league will be doing all it can to broadcast matches to fans.
Football has been on hold since mid-March, and with the UK having extended its state of nation-wide lockdown into May at the earliest, it's highly unclear when - or if - the English football season will be cleared to resume.
It's a frustrating period for supporters, but in an impassioned plea, Parry has called for patience as the EFL do all they can to resolve an unprecedented situation.
An open letter to supporters, from EFL Chair, Rick Parry.#EFL https://t.co/y2qAnnOWw5
— EFL Communications (@EFL_Comms) April 17, 2020
"When it comes to footballing matters, I understand the desire among fans for definitive answers, particularly around the conclusion of 2019/20 campaign," the EFL open letter, signed by Parry, reads.
"As I am sure you will appreciate, the situation presents significant operational and financial challenges, including the logistics of clubs returning to full operational status, the practicalities of playing football behind closed doors, and the possible knock-on effects for the 2020/21 campaign.
"Please be assured that we are working hard on these and will update you as soon as we can once decisions have been made.
"To give you an honest assessment of the current situation; the point at which you will be able to attend games again remains unclear.
The world's original league football competition turns 132 today!
— E F L (@EFL) April 17, 2020
To mark our birthday, we've been into the record books - keep an eye on our channels throughout the day!#EFL pic.twitter.com/zOOHHAJbWH
"Unfortunately, I cannot tell you today when football will resume, though whenever we do return, matches are likely to be played without crowds.
"And whilst we are unfortunately without the presence of the hundreds of thousands of supporters who pass through EFL turnstiles each week, we will endeavour to bring live football direct into your homes once it returns.
"Plans are continuing to be worked up for all games to be broadcast either via our broadcast partners, iFollow or equivalent club streaming services. We will update you on this once we know when matches will recommence.
Parry concluded: "I thank you for your patience so far and ask for more of the same; this is a serious situation which is changing by the day, and one which requires informed and considered decisions. The next few weeks will bring more clarity when it comes to our operational plans and, as always, we’ll look to maintain regular communication.
"One thing we can be sure of is that football, and normality, will return, and will so do more quickly if we remain united.
"For now, thank you for your ongoing support and, please, stay safe."
Source : 90min