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EFL consider expanding Championship play-offs to six teams 

The English Football League (EFL) is considering adding an eliminator round to the Championship play-offs, which would increase the number of teams to six. 

The proposal, presented by Preston North End director Peter Ridsdale, has reportedly been well received by second-tier clubs.

The plan is a similar format to the one used by the National League, with the lower-placed teams playing eliminators before the winners face the teams which finished third and fourth in two-legged ties.

The two winners would meet at Wembley Stadium for the chance to win promotion to the Premier League. 

The plan has not been presented to the Football Association Board, and formal voting at EFL level has not happened either. 

The Athletic claims several Championship clubs have been very receptive to the idea, as it would add greater jeopardy to the end of the season and give more teams a shot at top-flight promotion. 


The Premier League has previously objected to similar proposals due to concerns about diluting the quality of its competition. 

Sheffield United, Sunderland, Coventry City and Bristol City contested the Championship play-offs last season. 

The Black Cats made it to the final after beating Coventry 3-2 in the last four, before defeating Sheffield United 2-1 in a thrilling Wembley final to earn a place in the Premier League.

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