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'We expect the Premier League to support the EFL': Government urge top flight clubs to 'step up to the plate' for struggling lower league teams with financial support package set to be agreed this week

Culture secretary Oliver Dowden has called for the Premier League to 'step up to the plate' and provide financial support for EFL clubs through the coronavirus crisis.

The EFL says its clubs stand to lose £200million this season without crowds, having already lost £50m last season. There are fears that without crowds some EFL clubs will disappear.

Dowden told Sky News' Sophy Ridge On Sunday: 'We stand ready to support clubs because they are such an important part of our local community.

Culture secretary Oliver Dowden has urged Premier League clubs to support EFL teams

Dowden said that he expects a financial support deal to be finalised later this week

'The first thing we need to look to is the Premier League and I've been in contact with them this week.