THE English Football League has announced no decision will be taken on the future of the season until after the board has met later in the week, writes Rob Stevens.
The Football Association collectively agreed with the Premier League and EFL to suspend the professional game in England until Friday April 3 at the earliest after the outbreak of the coronavirus.
There has been a lot of speculation about what might happen with numerous theories suggested but the EFL will remain tight-lipped for now.
A statement released today (Monday) read: “The health and well-being of EFL staff, players, club employees and supporters is of paramount importance and will be key to the decisions made during what is clearly an unprecedented situation facing our game.
“It is with that in the forefront of the EFL’s mind that it notes the intense speculation that has appeared across the media over the weekend.
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“Whilst the League and its board understand there is a strong desire from both the media and general public to understand what may happen next, there has at this current time been no decisions taken.
“The League also feels it is inappropriate to respond to the many hypothetical solutions being suggested whilst the many unknowns remain.
“Given the fast-paced environment and parameters we are currently working within, it is simply not practical to give a running commentary on what may happen.
“In the immediate short term, we will continue with our contingency planning to deal with the implications the outbreak of Covid-19 has presented the EFL and its clubs in addition to liaising with the Government, health authorities and football partners.
“A further update will be given once the EFL Board has met this week.
“In the meantime, we wish the football and wider community well and urge all to follow the guidance from the Government provided by Public Health England if presented with any symptoms.”
Wycombe Wanderers are fighting for promotion from League One this season and are currently in eighth position in the table – outside of the play off spots on goal difference with 10 matches still to play.
The Blues saw their trip to Burton Albion postponed last weekend and were due to host Oxford United at Adams Park this Saturday. Matches at Coventry City and Shrewsbury Town have also been suspended due to the virus.
Wycombe could return to action at home to second-placed Rotherham United on Saturday April 4 (3pm).
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Wycombe Chairman Rob Couhig sated: "Football, at the end of the day, is a game. We love it - our team, the players, the manager, coaches and staff - all the great people who put on the game and make it a special day.
“But it’s not life. Our obligations to each other and to society must take precedence. The decision is a reminder of that priority.
“We hope the suspension will end as planned and the season will be allowed to be completed.
“We pray for the good health of our Wanderers community and everyone associated with it.”
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