Morecambe fans face having to watch matches from home according to EFL boss

The EFL has been on shutdown since mid-March, along with the rest of the professional game in England, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

A return to training no earlier than May 16 had previously been mooted before Thursday’s announcement that the UK’s lockdown will continue until at least May 7.

In an open letter to supporters published on Friday, Parry said “To give you an honest assessment of the current situation; the point at which you will be able to attend games again remains unclear.

“Please be assured, however, that we are going to welcome you back to stadiums as soon as it is safe to do so.”

However, fans have been promised that plans are being drawn up for them to watch games from home once it was safe for matches to be played.

“Plans are continuing to be worked up for all games to be broadcast either via our broadcast partners, iFollow or equivalent club streaming services,” Parry added.

“We will update you on this once we know when matches will recommence.

“The contribution to football’s finances made by matchgoing supporters should not be underestimated.

“It is critical to the business model of league football. Perhaps the biggest challenge right now is not knowing when we will be able to reintroduce football in front of crowds.

“We can only hope that the situation develops in such a way that we will be able to do that with the shortest possible break.

“As I said when I arrived, the EFL and its clubs matter to many people, but most of all to the supporters.

“It is natural, at this stage, that you will have many questions, and we will endeavour to continue to provide answers and solutions, but we must do so with your health – as well as that of the entire nation – in mind.

“I thank you for your patience so far and ask for more of the same; this is a serious situation which is changing by the day, and one which requires informed and considered decisions.

“The next few weeks will bring more clarity when it comes to our operational plans and, as always, we’ll look to maintain regular communication.

“One thing we can be sure of is that football, and normality, will return, and will so do more quickly if we remain united.”