Neil Warnock tells Middlesbrough they still a point from safety ahead of Sheffield Wednesday game

Boro travel to Sheffield Wednesday technically two points above the relegation zone but if Wigan Athletic are docked 12 for going into administration, the gap is four, making them safe.

But with Wigan set to appeal, Warnock has told his players they are not.

“No, not at all,” he said. “We've always said we need another point.

“It is a bit chaotic, the situation regarding Wigan and possibly Sheffield Wednesday (who are waiting to hear the verdict from their misconduct hearing). I think we should know what we're up against really but it doesn't appear that will happen before the game.

“I don't think (it takes the shine off the final day), I just think at the level we're talking about I think it's wrong it's not decided already one way or the other so the clubs concerned and the rest of the league can get on with it but it is what it is and you've just got to make sure it doesn't matter what happens legally or in the that respect, and it's decided on the field of play.

“We are aware we need a point.

“We're all guessing and surmising but if we get a point we haven't got to worry what happens in these situations.”

Middlesbrough's goal difference is 15 better than that of Luton Town, currently in the final relegation place.

The Football League (EFL) put a statement out on Monday evening attempting to clarify the situation over the ongoing cases, but it has not had the desired effect.

The 12-point deduction for going into administration is normally mandatory, but Wigan are arguing force majeure as a result of the coronavirus and its financial implications. Because they went into administration so late in the season, the deduction will only be applied at the end, if it is relevant to them avoiding relegation.

Sheffield Wednesday were charged in November over the sale and lease-back of their Hillsborough home to owner Dejphon Chansiri, which allowed them to avoid breaching profit and sustainability rules. The move is allowed under the rules, but the hearing was into the precise circumstances, with Wednesday calling the charge “unlawful”.

The hearing was late last month, but there has been no indication as to when the outcome may be revealed, and it would be surprise if there was not an appeal either way.

The League pointed out that the cases were being dealt with by an independent disciplinary commission, who control “the format and timing of the proceedings”.

It added: “The EFL is committed to announcing any final outcome promptly following notification of the decision by the relevant independent disciplinary commission,” but is it deeply unsatisfactory the Owls' case in particular has not been resolved.

Warnock expects to be able to pick from the same squad beaten at home to Cardiff City on Saturday, with the exception of Jonny Howson, who is suspended after his 89th-minute red card.

“It's very disappointing,” said the veteran manager. I think he's been a real plus for us since I got here but he's let everybody down not being available for the last game but it's done and dusted now and we'll have to get on without him.”

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