Peterborough United chairman Darragh MacAnthony praises EFL decision to try and complete the current season and for organising a £50 million relief package for member clubs

Last night (March 18) MacAnthony put forward his own plans to combat problems caused by the coronavirus. They included the need to complete the 2019-20 campaign and a request for financial support for lower division clubs.

MacAnthony took to Twitter to comment on an EFL statement issued at the end of a long board meeting today.

“It’s a start and a common sense approach,” MacAnthony said. “Bravo to the EFL for for acting quickly, but more will be required so keep working on it.

“We have to be proactive and engaging in everything we do. Together we beat this thing, but against each other we suffer.”

Currently EFL competitions are suspended to April 3, but that comeback date is likely to be pushed back.

The EFL statement read: “The primary objective, in order to protect competition integrity, is to deliver a successful conclusion to the 2019/20 season, subject to the over-riding priority around health and well-being. Plans continue to be developed on the agreed principle that it is in the best interests of the EFL and clubs to complete the current season at the appropriate time.

“The EFL is continuing regular dialogue with the Government and relevant health authorities and, as and when more information is known regarding the scale and extent of the coronavirus outbreak in this country, a decision will be taken on the resumption of the League’s fixtures.

“As part of the League’s continued contingency planning, the Board heard the comments and observations from EFL Clubs, before discussing a number of issues including the current financial position and implications, insurance, regulatory matters and broadcasting arrangements.

“Discussions centred on financial relief for clubs in the short term and while there is no one single solution, measures are to be put in place to immediately assist with cash flow via a £50million short-term relief package.

“This fund consists of the remaining Basic Award payments being advanced to clubs immediately, with the remainder made up through interest-free loan facility available to clubs, calculated in line with the EFL’s Article of Associations.

“The cash injection is included as part of a series of measures, that includes potential Government support to help clubs and their associated businesses through this period of uncertainty. The EFL welcomes last night’s announcement made by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and is continuing discussions to understand how our Clubs can access the funding made available to support businesses.”