Robins backs proposal for 2 more teams in play-offs

CITY MANAGER SAYS CONCEPT WOULD KEEP PEOPLE INTERESTED UNTIL LAST KICK. PETE SMITH REPORTS...

- 

MARK Robins has given his backing to a proposal to extend the Championship playoffs to a further two teams.

The EFL is considering an idea to add an eliminator round to the end-of-season shootout for promotion in a format similar to one which has been used by the National League.

The teams who finish in seventh and eighth take on the teams in sixth and fifth respectively in one-off ties at the higher-placed side's home to set up two-legged ties for the winners against the teams who finish in third and fourth. The winners of those would then meet at Wembley.

The concept was presented to rivals by Preston North End chief executive Peter Ridsdale and has reportedly been well received.

Changes to the competition would need approval from the FA Board and Premier League.

There has not yet been a vote at EFL level.