EFL say players will have to be tested before Sheffield Wednesday season is allowed to resume

The authority maintain that their position is ‘unchanged’ with regard to when the season may restart and reiterated their desire to restart the season as soon as it is safe to do so.

But the testing of players is a priority, the statement makes clear. Earlier this month Owls forward Sam Winnall announced he had tested positive for the coronavirus with a testing kit made available to him by the club, despite not suffering any symptoms.

The accuracy of the testing kits used by clubs up and down the country are not yet known and according to the latest update, the EFL are working to providing a full safety process to ensure the safety of the wider public.

The statement said: “Clearly, before any return to football can take place, suitable testing arrangements for participants must be in place and this is core to our current planning, as is ensuring there is absolutely no negative impact on the country’s front-line workers, the Emergency services, League and Club staff members.

“The EFL’s medical advisor is working with a select group of medical professionals and sports scientists to ensure their collective expertise is utilised to address these issues.

“This group will consider the latest medical information and evidence from both in the UK and abroad, particularly around the viability and accessibility of the various COVID-19 tests that are currently available.”

The EFL have also said that there are a number of logistical issues that require sorting out before the scheduling of fixtures can begin.

The spokesperson said: “It is also our view that a successful return to playing in this country can only come about through a continued collaborative approach with all stakeholders, including the Premier League and Football Association, in order for important issues to be aligned such as, but not limited to, scheduling of fixtures, promotion, relegation and the opening and closing of transfer windows. This work has been ongoing for some time and will continue in the weeks ahead. “