Ebbsfleet's future in doubt as suspension is extended

Ebbsfleet United face the prospect of expulsion from the Football League [Getty Images] Ebbsfleet United's future is in serious doubt after their suspension from the National League was extended. Earlier this month, Ebbsfleet's first three National League South games of the season were suspended because of the Kent club's ongoing financial problems. The National League announced in a statement on Wednesday that a review of the situation by its compliance and licensing committee had found no significant change. "The club has been given time and opportunity to demonstrate compliance with the league's rules and regulations, but matters cannot continue as has been the case," the statement read. "The range of actions under rules and regulations include the potential for expulsion from the National League. "The club is aware that such action is an option, and that it is entirely a matter for the club to satisfy the committee under the rules and regulations, and to remove such as an outcome." Ebbsfleet remain in debt to HM Revenue and Customs, meaning a winding-up petition remains in place, with doubts therefore remaining over whether they have the financial capacity to complete the season. The extension of the suspension also means that neither their away match at Farnborough Town on 29 August nor the home game against Horsham two days later will go ahead. Ebbsfleet have been given until 5pm on 1 September to submit any further information to the National League, who will then carry out a further review.