West Brom call for EFL to complete season

The coronavirus pandemic has seen all professional football suspended until April 3 at the earliest.

That has led to widespread speculation as to what will happen when the game is able to return – with clubs throughout the Championship livid that some Premier League sides have called for the season to be declared null and void.

At an EFL board meeting being held today, the Express & Star understands Albion will urge that every possible action is taken to ensure the current season is completed.

And they will support matches being played behind closed doors if that is the only way they can return and protect public safety.

But the Baggies will also ask that, if possible, clubs try and resolve the season by June 30 in a bid to prevent a host of issues arising with players contracts.

That motion is likely to be supported by the EFL’s other members with clubs set to face a variety of challenges when it comes to players existing terms.

From loan deals ending, to contracts expiring to players being owed pay rises and loyalty bonuses, the June 30 date will have an impact for a huge percentage of footballers up and down the country.

And Albion would prefer the season is completed before they need resolving.

The Baggies will also confirm at today’s meeting they will launch a legal challenge if the season is declared null and void and they miss out on promotion.

With just nine games of the season remaining, Slaven Bilic’s side sit second in the Championship table with a six-point cushion over third-spot.

Yesterday it was reported Albion joined the rest of the top six sides in holding a secret meeting in regards to what they will do should be season be declared null and avoid.

No meeting took place.

But there was a meeting, via conference call, of all 24 teams yesterday afternoon.

The Baggies hierarchy are also in regular dialogue with their counterparts at other Championship clubs in a bid to determine what is the best way to move forward.