Thomas expects Premier League 'rescue package' to help struggling EFL clubs

Cobblers chairman Kelvin Thomas still expects the Premier League to provide struggling EFL clubs with a 'rescue package' to help with the financial implications of COVID.

The EFL is seeking a bailout of £200m to make up for losses in the absence of gate receipts at the end of last season and the start of this, but as yet nothing has been forthcoming.

However, there is now an increased sense of urgency over the seriousness of the situation following the news that supporters will not be returning next month as originally hoped.

It has also been reported that the government intends to put together a package to help cash-strapped clubs in various sports, but the EFL is still looking at the Premier League for support.

Asked if he's still expecting some financial support for lower league clubs, Thomas said: "I think so. There's been discussions around that and we've got a meeting with the EFL next week and that will be a topic, especially after the news on Tuesday.

"It will sharpen the focus. The government and the EFL have done quite a lot of stuff in terms of helping clubs with their cashflow and the furlough scheme.

"The furlough scheme is coming to an end but that doesn't impact clubs as much now that the season has started.

"There's a lot of conversations between the Premier League, the EFL and the government over what happens with football because the reality is that we missed four games worth of income last season which had a major impact - but it was all about what happened this season and when we could get crowds back.

"That was always the question and if we crowds aren't back next month, we will have some challenges and it will be difficult for a lot of clubs. We've all had to show cashflows to the EFL and I think the view was that, until October, most clubs should be OK.

"But when October hits, it's definitely going to be a bigger challenge for clubs so hopefully the rescue package will get firmed up pretty soon."