Discussions are underway regarding a potential expansion of the Championship play-offs, a development that could significantly alter the pathway to promotion to the Premier League. According to The Pink'un, the English Football League (EFL) is considering an eliminator round that would see six teams competing for a coveted spot in the top tier.
The proposed format mirrors the system currently in use in the National League. Under this plan, the fifth-placed team would face the eighth-placed team, while the sixth and seventh teams would meet in single-elimination matches, hosted by the higher-ranked clubs. The winners of these encounters would then advance to face the teams finishing third and fourth in two-legged ties, culminating in a climactic final at Wembley for a place in the Premier League.
This initiative was introduced by Peter Ridsdale, the chief executive of Preston North End, during a recent meeting of Championship club executives, where it received a warm reception. The primary aim of this proposal is to reduce the number of inconsequential matches towards the end of the season while heightening the competitive stakes for clubs vying for promotion. Additionally, it would allow more teams to enter the promotion race, potentially revitalising the league's competitive landscape.
The EFL is also contemplating similar changes for League One and League Two, but the Championship is currently the focal point, especially with ongoing discussions about increasing promotion from the National League from two teams to three. Such a shift could lead to an increase in relegations from League Two.
This is not the first time such a proposal has been put forward. Phil Alexander, the former chief executive of Crystal Palace and Bristol City, initially suggested this format in 2003, but it failed to gain traction at that time. Any changes to competition formats require approval from the FA Board, and previous concerns from the Premier League regarding the preservation of competition quality have complicated efforts to implement such changes.
While the latest proposal is still in its infancy, The Athletic reports that several Championship club owners have expressed their support for the idea, albeit on the condition of anonymity.
Play-offs have been a staple of the EFL since their introduction in 1987, originally featuring two-legged finals before evolving into a single-match format at Wembley in 1990. Norwich City fans will fondly remember the thrilling moments from past play-off encounters, including the unforgettable 2002 final against Birmingham City held in Cardiff. Read more about Kamara Joins Getafe on Loan as Norwich Fans Watch Closely.
As discussions continue, the potential transformation of the Championship could introduce an exciting new dimension to the promotion race.