How the 2019-20 National League could still continue despite cancellation reports

Hartlepool United's Kenton Richardson in action with Patrick Brough of Barrow during the Vanarama National League match between Hartlepool United and Barrow at Victoria Park, Hartlepool on Saturday 28th December 2019. (Credit: Mark Fletcher | MI News)

Confusion was caused following a leaked National League statement to member clubs which stated that the intention was ‘to close the season as soon as possible’.

With the season currently suspended, some clubs and many others interpreted this as the season would be ended based on the current standings.

The ambiguous statement has since been clarified with the National League still wanting to attempt to complete the current season in line with its Premier League and EFL counterparts.

This was confirmed in an FA statement released on Thursday which read: “The National League [NLS Steps 1 and 2] have agreed that they want to attempt to complete the competition in line with the Premier League, EFL and Barclays FA Women’s Super League and Emirates FA Cup and are therefore seeking permission from The FA that the season for this level will be extended beyond 1 June 2020 indefinitely.”