No return to action for Doncaster Rovers 'until it is safe to do so', EFL confirms

Issuing a joint decree along with the Premier League, Football Association and the Women’s Super League and Championship, the EFL said staging football matches ‘is clearly something that cannot happen at this time’ and has suspended competition indefinitely.

The organising bodies had previously suspended competition until April 30 at the earliest.

A statement from the EFL read: “As a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic the EFL, Premier League, FA and Barclays FA Women’s Super League and FA Women’s Championship has today collectively agreed to postpone its football competitions until it is safe to resume.

“Football is committed in supporting the Government’s efforts in tackling the COVID-19 outbreak and the staging of football matches in this country. It is clearly something that simply cannot happen at this time. The thoughts of everyone associated with the EFL and its member Clubs are with anyone currently affected by the Coronavirus.

“The situation will be kept under constant review with matches only returning at an appropriate point and based on the latest guidance provided by the relevant Government departments and health authorities.

“The EFL also notes and appreciates the decision taken today by the Premier League in respect of the short term financial relief it is to provide EFL Clubs through the advancement of solidarity payments, parachute payments and Academy Grants.

“These actions will have a positive impact on individual Clubs across our three divisions at a difficult and uncertain time.”