Testing for Wigan Athletic squad ahead of Monday return

It’s understood the Championship will follow the Premier League’s lead and insist on two tests – double the recent advice recommended – which will not be made public.

All 24 clubs have already informed the EFL which players will be involved in the testing programme.

No dates have yet been confirmed regarding a return to matches, although June 20 has been mooted as a possibility.

The plan is for the remaining nine games of the campaign to be played behind closed doors on five consecutive weekends, and the four midweeks.

That would mean the season being finished on the weekend of July 18/19 followed by the play-offs.

It’s been reported by the Daily Telegraph that midweek matches will be screened live at 6pm and 8pm, with weekend fixtures being played at 1pm, 3pm and 5pm.

The EFL have maintained all along three clubs would be promoted to the Premier League.

“While there is much debate and discussion taking place publicly and privately, the EFL will continue to undertake consultation with our members before the next steps are determined,” read a statement.

“Current attention is clearly on the immediate next steps, but the long-term impact on the League and its Clubs remains as stark as previously outlined, and solutions are still required to fill the financial hole left by the crisis.

"The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic will not be rectified simply by a return to play behind closed doors.

“In addition, the EFL is mindful of the pressing need for clarity in a number of areas, including the practicalities and timeframes of Clubs being able to facilitate a return to training.

"To address this, Clubs have been issued with the latest draft of the EFL’s ‘Return to Training Protocols’ so they can prepare appropriately.”

Hull City on Tuesday become the first Championship club to oppose the season restarting, with vice-chairman Ehab Allam writing a letter to the EFL outlining his “serious concerns”

It’s believed at least three other Championship clubs have expressed opposition or strong reservations.