Players at clubs such as Doncaster Rovers ‘told chances of EFL season being finished are fading’

The Daily Mail reports that following an EFL board meeting on Wednesday, a message was sent out via club captains and Professional Footballers Association representatives that there is little expectation of football being played in June.

And supporters are not expected to be allowed into EFL stadiums until January at the earliest.

The EFL had told clubs not to bring back players for training until May 16 at the earliest, but this potential date now looks in considerable doubt.

It is understood the EFL would require tens of thousands of coronavirus tests in order to complete the campaign - something which clubs are uneasy about given the shortage of availability for NHS and key workers.

Such doubts over the viability of completing the season leave the EFL with the dilemma of how to determine the outcome of the campaign.

Players are understood that the governing body is seriously considering the ‘sporting merit’ system which would see final tables drawn up on a points per game basis.

It has been suggested that clubs in automatic promotion places will be promoted with no relegation.

However, this would require agreement with the Premier League - the CEOs of clubs of which are due to meet on Friday to discuss their own ‘Project Restart.’

The status of player contracts which expire at the end of June also remains a controversial subject.

The Mail reported last week that EFL clubs are reluctant to agree to pay players extra beyond the end of their contracts in the event the season continues beyond that point, but would expect them to play on.

Players are set to be asked by the PFA to vote on whether this would be acceptable.

A vote against would deliver a considerable blow to hopes of completing the season, regardless of other matters.

James Coppinger, Kieran Sadlier and Matty Blair are all out of contract at Doncaster Rovers this summer.

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