The Football League has confirmed the 2013/14 season with start earlier than usual on August 3.

This decision follows a ballot of clubs, with a “clear majority in all three divisions preferring the chosen date as it delivers an additional Saturday match”.

The season will end on May 3, with the play-off finals being staged at Wembley Stadium from May 24 to May 26.

The festive programme for the 2013/14 season will feature games on Saturday, December 21 and Sunday, December 29, as well as Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.