League Two clubs agree to end season with immediate effect

The intention is for the final league standings to be decided using a points-per-game model with three teams set to go up automatically as normal

League Two clubs have agreed to end the season with immediate effect.

All 24 clubs met via conference call on Friday to discuss the remaining options on the table with the league in indefinite hiatus in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

The intention is now for the final league standings to be decided using a points-per-game model with three teams set to go up automatically as normal.

Plans remain in place for the play-offs to take place as usual with two-legged semi-finals and a one-off final to decide the fourth and final promoted team.

It is the clubs’ intention that relegation to the National League be suspended.

All decisions are subject to approval from the English Football League and the Football Association.

An EFL statement read: “Having considered the protocols and costs that would be required to be met to conclude the current season, League Two Clubs have unanimously indicated a preferred direction of travel to curtail the campaign in line with the framework outlined by the EFL Board.

“In addition, clubs asked for consideration to be given to suspending relegation to the National League for 2019/20 as a result of circumstances created where fixtures cannot be completed. No commitments were made in this respect and the Board will now consider the implications of the division’s preferred approach at their next meeting.”

Crewe Alexandra were top of the table at the stoppage of play with Swindon Town and Plymouth Argyle occupying the other two automatic promotion spots.

Stevenage were bottom in the sole relegation place.

A weighted points-per-game model was said to be the preferred option of clubs meaning teams who have played more home matches would not gain an unfair advantage in the calculations.

However, the EFL later confirmed a non-weighted model will be used.

Earlier League One clubs failed to come to an agreement over how their campaign will be concluded and will discuss options again early next week.