Sage has said this will be a ‘long term partnership’ as it becomes the official accounting software partner of the EFL.

Additionally, Sage has said the move ‘strengthens its commitment to the 3.5 million small and medium-sized businesses in the UK who play a key role in EFL football communities up and down the country - the pubs, cafés, shops, and suppliers that bring matchday to life’.

Steve Hare, CEO of Sage, said: ‘We’ve been supporting British small businesses since we were founded, including many football clubs up and down the country.

‘It’s fantastic to bring all of this together in support of the small businesses that power the football experience week in, week out. This is more than a sponsorship, it’s about delivering real value to the communities that make football what it is.’

As well as servicing the 72 clubs in the EFL Sage is offering its services to the small businesses ‘behind the badge’, said Sage.

Sage is also asking supporters of the 72 teams to nominate local businesses who are involved with their football clubs and are part of the match day experience.

There will be three winners who will have the chance to win a ‘bespoke club sponsorship’ that will be funded by Sage. Finalists that don’t win the top prize will receive business grants as well as the chance for promotional opportunities in the EFL.

Gary Neville said: ‘Football is more than what happens on the pitch, it’s a tradition rooted in local communities. The small businesses around every ground make matchdays what they are, from the cafés to the corner shops and coach companies.

‘I’ve seen it from my time as a player and now as an owner, just how vital these businesses are. I’m proud to join Sage in celebrating their contribution and helping them thrive.’

Fans watching the EFL can expect to see up to six graphics per match that will bring ‘smarter stats and fan analysis’ said Sage.