Boardroom change at Hull City's promotion rivals ahead of takeover as League One clubs eye transfer deals

Elite level sport is set to continue despite tighter lockdown measures being introduced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson to combat the spread of Covid-19.

That means Hull City will return to Papa Johns Trophy action against Fleetwood Town next Tuesday.

But will the Tigers’ opponents have a manager by then, following the news that head coach Joey Barton has left the club?

Interestingly, a number of big names have been linked to the vacant role by the bookies, including Tim Cahill and Paul Cook.

But there’s also plenty transfer talk ahead of an interesting transfer window for the many clubs up and down the EFL pyramid.

So what’s the latest gossip from League One?

As always, we’re sharing the latest rumours from around the third tier – so scroll down to see the latest news and talk from around the internet:

Keeper Ethan Ross has left Lincoln City on loan, joining National League side Weymouth until the end of the season. (Various)

Pompey have received enquiries for Paul Downing to depart this month. It has been said that a League One club, plus a League Two promotion-chasing side, are keen to sign the centre-back on loan for the remainder of the season. (The News)

Bournemouth goalkeeper Mark Travers is set to join Swindon Town. The Championship club have given the 21-year-old the green light to exit the Vitality Stadium this month in aid of his development. (Football Insider)

Behind the scenes, Sunderland’s ownership situation is set to be resolved in the coming weeks as Kyril Louis-Dreyfus’ bid heads through EFL checks. (Sunderland Echo)

In a League Managers Association statement, Joey Barton has thanked Fleetwood Town for trusting him in the role and paid tribute to the fans and the community in the area for the support they gave him during his time as head coach. (LMA)

Neil Fox – a one-time director at Sunderland and one of current owner Stewart Donald’s closest associates – has left the club according to documents filed at Companies House. (Sunderland Echo)