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The lates coronavirus updates in the EFL: League says May 16 would be earliest date to get back to training


The Sky Bet EFL has told clubs that they will not be returning to training until May 25 at the earliest and warned that playing behind closed doors in itself would not be a solution.

The EFL has said that it would take 56 days to complete the remaining 326 fixtures, not including the play-offs, and chairman Rick Parry has said the seasons need to be finished off by July 31.

A initial date of May 16 was proposed to return to training, but that's been put back by at least another nine days after the latest EFL board meeting.

"While there is much debate and discussion taking place publicly and privately regarding what should, or could, happen next, the EFL will continue to undertake consultation with our members before the next steps are determined.

"Current attention is clearly on the immediate next steps, but the long-term impact on the league and its clubs remains as stark as previously outlined, and solutions are still required to fill the financial hole left by the crisis.

"The consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic will not be rectified simply by a return to play behind closed doors.

"In addition, the EFL is mindful of the pressing need for clarity in a number of areas, including the practicalities and timeframes of clubs being able to facilitate a return to training.

"To address this, clubs have today been issued with the latest draft of the EFL's 'Return to Training Protocols', so that they can prepare appropriately.

"However, until all outstanding matters are concluded, including finalising a comprehensive testing programme on matchdays and non-matchdays, the EFL Board has informed its clubs that a return to training should not take place until 25 May at the earliest.

"Dialogue continues with our colleagues across the footballing and political landscape regarding these and other issues, and the EFL is committed to keeping all relevant parties updated on key decisions and developments as they occur."

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