EFL clubs have approved the use of points-per-game (PPG) promotion and relegation as well as play-off campaigns in the event a season cannot be completed, ahead of votes later today on whether to finish the regular season in League One and League Two.


The EFL Board proposed changes to their regulations three weeks ago for the event of a curtailed campaign, which would see final placings determined on unweighted PPG, promotion and relegation retained as usual, and play-offs still played among four teams.


A majority of the 71 EFL clubs approved these measures, and rejected several amendments and alternative frameworks put forward by individual clubs.
Meetings will take place between both League One and League Two clubs on whether to now end their regular seasons based on these measures, with fourth-tier sides having already indicated their desire to call a halt.

Measures rejected

A number of alterations to the EFL Board’s recommendations were put forward by clubs, but none received enough support to be implemented.
Tranmere Rovers had called for a statistical margin for error to be applied to the PPG method, while Ipswich Town wanted further discussion on an alternative play-off format and Lincoln City wanted points deductions to be taken into account in PPG calculations.
Barnsley wished no team to be relegated following a curtailed season while Stevenage wanted to scrap relegation from League Two.

Consistency across the EFL

EFL chairman Rick Parry said: “Whilst it has always remained the Board’s position to play the remainder of the season where possible, the decision reached at today’s meeting follows a full and considered consultation period with our member Clubs."

He admitted that the decisions made will not be popular with some of the clubs that could be affected:

"The Board has endeavoured to listen to all views and alternative approaches but understands that the decisions taken will not be met with universal satisfaction from all Clubs."

Parry was keen to reiterate how ensuring consistency amongst all three of the football leagues was key, he continued:


“Today’s outcome ensures that the League and its Clubs remains as faithful as possible to the previously agreed Regulations and that there is consistency in the approach adopted across the EFL in all divisions if required.


“It is clear that the challenges facing the League from the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic are unprecedented and I thank the contribution of EFL Clubs in making this important determination.”