Hull could face EFL investigation after Championship clash was postponed 18 MINUTES before kick-off

The EFL have asked Hull City for their observations – and could launch an investigation – after the Tigers‘ match with Watford was called off 18 minutes before kick-off.

Officials have also asked the Hornets, who complained bitterly about the late call, for their thoughts.

They will then assess the evidence before deciding whether to start a probe which could lead to disciplinary action against the hosts who are currently a place outside the Championship play-offs.

The decision was made thanks to safety areas over the artificial turf surrounding the pitch at the MKM Stadium, rather than the playing surface itself.

Hull released a statement saying that all parties had agreed to the postponement. However, Watford subsequently insisted that they were ready to play and that their consent was not given to call the game off.

‘We reiterate we were ready and willing to play after the pitch was passed fit by the referee,’ a statement said.

‘We remain disappointed by the decision to postpone and by how the decision was reached. We did not agree to the postponement.’

In an earlier post Watford, who are a place above Hull, said ‘we were ready to play. The decision to postpone the fixture so close to kick-off is regrettable and we fully share the frustration of our supporters’.

Should the EFL believe there are grounds to investigate and conclude that the Tigers breached its rules, they could be forced to pay compensation to their visitors.

The league could also consider further action should it deem it necessary, although the points being handed to Watford without the fixture being played is a highly unlikely prospect.