THE EFL has confirmed that games will continue over the Christmas period “where it is safe to do so”.

There were serious doubts over whether the Boxing Day fixtures would take place following a surge in cases.

Northampton and Newport’s matches have already been called off, and The Bolton News understands that EFL clubs were bracing themselves for the remaining fixtures to be postponed.

An official statement read: “While the League acknowledges there will likely be future postponements to navigate where Covid-19 cases are identified, there is optimism that disruption can be minimised following implementation of RED protocols, a daily testing regime and ongoing vaccination rollout.”

The announcement follows the Premier League’s decision to keep all fixtures in place over the festive period following a meeting earlier today.

“Throughout the pandemic, our two priorities have been ensuring the welfare of those involved in EFL competitions and ensuring the fixture schedule can continue where it is safe to do so,” said EFL chief executive Trevor Birch.

“We will continue to work with clubs, authorities and other agencies to monitor the Covid-19 case rate and be prepared to respond accordingly, yet for now the view remains that we can continue to deliver games safely where clubs have sufficient healthy personnel in place, on and off the pitch.

“With club mitigation measures, the mass adoption of booster jabs and Covid certification now required for larger crowds, we are sure many fans will continue to feel confident in attending matches over the Christmas period and we look forward to welcoming them.”

However, Wanderers’ Boxing Day clash with Morecambe remains in doubt due to a number of Covid cases in the squad.

Earlier today, the club released a statement saying they are “working through the relevant testing procedures and EFL protocols” after last weekend’s match against Wycombe was called off.

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