The EFL are reportedly considering 'innovative' solutions for the conclusion of the League One season, with a proposal for an expanded eight-team play-off system raised in Friday's meeting that would include Sunderland and Ipswich Town. 

The League One big hitters have been competing near the very top of the table for much of the season but slipped down just before the delay to season due to rough patches of form.

Sunderland failed to win their last four games in the league and now sit seventh, while the Tractor Boys lost their last four league games and have slipped to 10th.

League One sides met last week to negotiate how to conclude the 2019/20 campaign but were unable to come to an agreement.

According to The Athletic, the division is split between sides determined to complete it on the pitch and others who want to see it curtailed.

Sunderland and Ipswich are among those that want to see League One continued and it appears their promotion hopes have been boosted following Friday's meeting.

It is understood that the prospect of an eight-team play-off system has been raised, while the EFL are open to considering 'innovative' solutions.

Discussions are set to resume next week

Can you remember which Sunderland manager signed each of these 15 players? Have a go now!

The Verdict

This looks like a real boost for the promotion hopes of both clubs.

If the campaign is curtailed, neither side look likely to secure promotion via a points-per-game system, particularly after their winless runs prior to the delay.

It seems the EFL is open to concluding League One using an innovative solution and an eight-team play-off system will certainly be that.

It is going to be very interesting to see how this develops.