September 4 – The story of the expulsion of former English Football League club Bury may yet have another chapter, with the EFL board bowing to public pressure and saying it will discuss with other member clubs the possibility of allowing Bury re-entry at League Two level.
In a statement, the EFL emphasised that when they took their decision to expel Bury they had no “evidence of Bury FC’s ability to meet its financial commitments, whether by the current ownership or any other credible buyer for the Club.”
A public campaign led by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority has joined forces with local MPs and a Bury fans group in a bid to save the club. Their campaign is for the club to be readmitted to EFL League Two next season.
The EFL says that while the only way to enter its leagues is via promotion from the National League (tier 5), it will nevertheless discuss the proposal of allowing Bury to re-enter in League Two with its member clubs.
“In acknowledgement of the extreme nature of the problems at Bury FC, the EFL Board had agreed it is appropriate to discuss the matter with member Clubs. This is a complex situation that raises questions of due process, precedent and fairness as well as financial implications. The EFL will consult with its Clubs over the coming weeks,” said the EFL statement.
The EFL said that it would still need “clear evidence” that Bury could fulfil its financial commitments.
Although not competing in the EFL this season, the club could theoretically still compete in the FA Cup.
Meanwhile, Greater Manchester Police has said it is investigating an allegation of fraud involving the club.
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