Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa believes the Premier League have a responsibility to help protect the “heart” of English football further down the pyramid.

The controversial Project Big Picture proposal was rejected by Premier League clubs earlier this week, but the debate over how to find a new way forward and funding for EFL teams to help them through the pandemic continues.

“The tip of the iceberg is responsive to the whole iceberg,” said Argentinian Bielsa, who helped guide Leeds back into the top flight for the first time in 16 years.

West Ham boss David Moyes did not agree with PBP, but also believes Premier League clubs cannot just be expected to help out further down the pyramid themselves.

“Having managed top teams I have seen the other side of it and it can’t always be the top clubs looking after smaller clubs, but we have a big job to do, it is a difficult time for everybody,” the former Everton and Manchester United manager said.

“The Government needs to do more for the lower levels of football and sport because it is such a big part of this country.”

Aston Villa manager Dean Smith feels “it’s the responsibility of everyone, not just the Premier League”.

He said: “The Football Association, the EFL, the LMA (League Managers’ Association), the PFA (Professional Footballers’ Association) need to all get their heads together to help teams who are in financial trouble.”