The EFL is exploring the introduction of National League-style eliminator matches, a move that could eventually stretch to League One and League Two. The proposal involves expanding the Championship playoffs from four to six teams, with two additional one-off elimination games.
Following the National League model, fifth place would host eighth, while sixth would host seventh, in single-leg ties at the higher-ranked teams’ grounds. The winners would then go on to face the third- and fourth-placed sides in two-legged semifinals, culminating in a Wembley final for a place in the Premier League.
The idea, suggested by Preston North End chief executive Peter Ridsdale at a recent club meeting, has received early support from Championship sides. Initially reported by The Athletic, the concept remains at a formative stage. The EFL plans to introduce the same format in League One and League Two, though only Championship clubs have been contacted so far. Any alteration to competition formats would need the approval of both the FA board and the Premier League.
Phil Alexander — formerly with Crystal Palace, Wycombe, and Bristol City and now the National League’s interim CEO — had previously floated similar proposals without success.
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