National League round-up: FA declare leagues 'null and void' as they continue to work to conclude National League season, AFC Fylde wage cut and Chesterfield takeover stalled

The National League wish to attempt to conclude the 2019-20 season like their Premier League and EFL counterparts with an FA statement released on Thursday afternoon confirming that discussions were still ongoing.

But all leagues below the National League North and South will have their 2019-20 records expunged with no promotions or relegations.

“The FA and NLS steps three to six have reached a consensus that their 2019-20 season will now be brought to an end, and all results will be expunged,” an FA statement read.

“This will mean no promotion or relegation of clubs between NLS steps three to six, and no promotion to NLS step two. These decisions will also apply to the leagues and clubs who play at NLS step seven.

“We will continue to assist and support the National League (NLS steps one and two) to determine the outcome of its 2019-20 season as quickly as possible.

“The planned implementation of the restructure of the NLS will also now be deferred until the start of the 2021-22 season.”

Elsewhere in the National League, AFC Fylde confirmed that all players and staff at the club would be taking a 50 per-cent wage cut in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic and subsequent football suspension.

Coasters’ owner David Haythornthwaite stated: “Unfortunately, we can’t wait any longer for the League, FA or indeed Government support and therefore we must take drastic action to ensure the survival of the club.

“Until today everybody has been paid in full but this can no longer continue.

“This afternoon, we have asked all our players, along with the football and operational staff at the club to take a 50 per cent decrease in their wages for April and May with immediate effect.”

The coronavirus outbreak has also stalled a potential takeover of Chesterfield by the Chesterfield Community Trust.

Trust chairman Mike Goodwin confirmed that while the pandemic has impacted the timing of the takeover, they remain committed to concluding the takeover.