National League start date delay 'inevitable'

The 2020/21 season start in the National League will ‘inevitably need to be reviewed and updated’ according to Michael Tattersall, Chief Executive of the National League.

The remaining 2019/20 fixtures were officially cancelled in late-April, though a ‘sporting outcome’ has yet to be determined as the National League wait for decisions from the EFL, with certain clubs preparing for play-off involvement. On next season, league chief executive Michael Tattersall has said in a letter to member clubs: “The start date for the 2020/21 season officially remains as 8 August 2020, but this will inevitably need to be reviewed and updated.

“In establishing a new commencement date, the board will be guided by The FA, the season dates decided for the EFL, the views of member clubs and the plans of the rest of the National League system.”

He adds: “As it stands, it is assumed that it is not practical and sustainable to commence the new season if matches are to be played behind closed doors.”