Leeds United to fight for promotion in front of 200? Championship clubs reveal predicted attendances for behind-closed-doors games
Championship clubs have reportedly drawn up plans for staging games behind closed doors and predicted numbers of necessary attendees in the hundreds.
If and when the season restarts, it is likely to be without supporters present in stadiums according to EFL chairman Rick Parry.
In an open letter published on Friday he said: “Unfortunately I cannot tell you when football will resume, though whenever we do return, matches are likely to be played without crowds.
“While we are unfortunately without the presence of the hundreds of thousands of supporters who pass through EFL turnstiles each week, we will endeavour to bring live football direct into your homes once it returns.
“Plans are continuing to be worked up for all games to be broadcast either via our partners iFollow, or equivalent club streaming services. We will update you on this once we know when matches will recommence."
A report by ESPN suggests that one Championship club has worked out that the bare minimum number of people it would expect to attend a behind-closed-doors game would be 166.And The National say they too have spoken to a second-tier English football who, despite having one of the division's smaller staffs, believe a game could be staged with fewer than 200 present.Reports in Germany say that the German Football Federation have drawn up plans to limit access to 239 people, including players, management and medical staff, match officials, TV broadcasters, cameramen, ballboys and journalists.
EFL clubs have been told not to return to training before May 16 and the game's authorities have estimated a 56-day window in order to complete the season.
Leeds United have expressed their desire to see the season played to a completion in order to maintain sporting integrity.
When the domestic game was suspended Marcelo Bielsa's men sat top of the Championship with nine games remaining.