EFL clubs including Doncaster Rovers to have early access to advanced £125m relief fund from Premier League

Premier League clubs met on Friday to discuss the latest response to the crisis, including potential restart dates for competitive football.

The top flight clubs also agreed to advance the relief fund to clubs in the tiers below, with many struggling after losing revenue streams since the suspension of competition and the lockdown of society. This fund is made up of advanced solidarity funds, parachute payments and Academy grants that would typically be paid later in the year.

A statement from the Premier League read: “Discussions also took place regarding financial relief for clubs in the short term and while there is no single solution, measures are to be put in place to immediately deal with the impact of falling cash flow.

“Critically, the League unanimously voted to advance funds of £125 million to the EFL and National League as it is aware of the severe difficulties clubs throughout the football pyramid are suffering at this time.”

It was also confirmed by the clubs that there was an acknowledgement action would not resume at the start of May.

The Premier League, along with the EFL, had previously suspended competition until April 30 at the earliest.

But with the peak of the virus yet to hit Britain, it was widely expected that date would be pushed back further.

No specific restart date has been suggested by the Premier League, only ‘that the 2019/20 season will only return when it is safe and appropriate to do so.’

Other competitions around Europe have suspended competition indefinitely, though UEFA has urged domestic bodies not to abandon their competitions all together.

The Premier League said their restart date will remain ‘under constant review’ and confirmed it remains the intention for competitions to be finished ‘to maintain the integrity of each competition.’

Top flight players will be consulted over wage deductions and deferrals of 30 per cent.

The Premier League also committed to provide £20million to support the NHS, communities and vulnerable groups.