EFL chief executive Shaun Harvey said he supported the creation of a mid-season break for the top flight but ‘‘it is currently impractical even if it was desirable for the EFL’’ to do likewise due to scheduling challenges of playing 46-game seasons and play-offs.

That the FA and Premier League have managed to find an answer to one of English football’s oldest debates should be welcomed.

‘‘This is a significant moment for English football and one that we believe will greatly benefit both club and country,’’ FA chief executive Martin Glenn said.

‘‘It’s no secret that we have a very congested fixture calendar and, over recent years, we have been working with the whole game to find a solution.

‘‘Today’s announcement proves that football can come together for the good of the game. We have also found a way to give the players a much needed mid-season break, whilst keeping the much-loved Christmas schedule in place.’’

The deal is another coup for Premier League executive chairman Richard Scudamore, who will step down later this year after almost two decades in the job.

‘‘We have been discussing the football calendar with the FA and EFL for several months, including ways we can work together to ease fixture congestion, keep the Premier League action going right through the season and provide a mid-season player break,’’ Scudamore said.

‘‘We are very pleased to have an outcome that will include an exciting first for fans – a full fixture program split over two weekends with all matches broadcast live in the UK.’’ PA