Question Number: 22494

League Specific 11/11/2009

RE: Adult

steve mannion of sheffield, UK asks...

If a club has an injury crisis, what is the procedure for asking the authorities to postpone the game? I realise that medical evidence would be required - from an independent third party- but is a decision taken based on the size of the squad , full time professionals, etc, or just the number of players available.

Hope its within your remit.

Thanks

Steve

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Steve
Not a question for referees. It is no doubt covered in the League competition rules. I suspect that you are asking this in relation to the recent spate of injuries suffered by Sheffield United. The club will if necessary make an application to the Football League putting forward its case either for postponements or permission to sign new players. It is done for illness cases although I remember Chelsea being denied a postponement because of players not being available due to food poisoning a few seasons ago.
I know that the League is sympathetic to a goalkeeper injury crisis but I'm not sure in relation to injuries to players?
The Football League is highly regulated so I'm sure it will be dealt with fairly according to the competition rules.

Answer provided by Referee MrRef

We are sorry sir,
as an independant referee site the resourses to FA policy requarding decisions they might take in such circumstances are not at our disposal! We can assume the league directors are informed by a written explanation! Under FIFA there is a 48 hour notice and fees that are to paid shall still be paid! In such a cases they refer to A level which maybe international not proffessional!

thank you and feel free to inform us if you find out anything to report we would appreciate the insight!