EFL to broadcast all matches while attendance restrictions remain

The EFL have agreed a “flexible framework” with Sky Sports, to allow all EFL games not already being televised to be streamed online via its iFollow platform.  

The EFL have described the move as a “temporary measure” which will be “subject to regular review” from October onwards, when it is hoped that fans will begin to return to stadiums.

Season ticket holders at EFL clubs will be able to stream home league matches involving their side, subject to the agreement of the individual clubs.

In the Championship season ticket holders will also be able to watch their side’s midweek away matches, whereas for supporters in Leagues One and Two away games will be available for a fee of £10 per game.

The agreement also covers fixtures in the first round of the Carabao Cup which aren’t selected for broadcast.

“There is no argument that attending live matches is what the league, its clubs and fans want to see and, clearly, the overriding objective is to get supporters back into stadiums as soon as it is safe to do so,” said EFL chief executive David Baldwin.

“In the meantime, this framework allows our clubs, if they so wish, to reward their most loyal supporters by providing what we hope is only short-term access to watch their matches.

“It’s important that whilst the doors remain fully, or part shut, we ensure there is the ability for fans of all EFL clubs to be able to gain access and watch their team and I would like to take this opportunity to thank Sky Sports for their support in this matter.

“Collectively, it’s not our preferred situation but given the circumstances Covid-19 has presented us it gives us a temporary option whilst we finalise our plans for fans returning.”

Last week Premier League fan groups hit out at the decision not to make behind-closed-door or reduced capacity games available for season ticket holders or regular match-goers.