EFL Chair Says Return Likely To Be Behind Closed Doors

EFL matches will likely be played behind closed doors when football matches return after the indefinite suspension caused by the coronavirus lockdown.

Rick Parry, Chair, EFL, wrote an open letter to fans of the league’s member clubs outlining some of the measures that his organisation will have to take in order to conclude the 2019/20 season and ensure the safety of players, fans, and the wider community when doing so. 

In the letter, Parry told supporters that matches will almost certainly be played without crowds, but that the EFL plans to broadcast the games live with the help of its broadcast partners or through the league’s iFollow platform.

“Unfortunately, I cannot tell you today when football will resume, though whenever we do return, matches are likely to be played without crowds,” he wrote.

“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.

“With or without spectators, delivering a successful conclusion to the 2019/20 season remains our goal to ensure the integrity of our competitions.”

Parry’s open letter marks the 132nd anniversary of the Football League’s foundation.