It’s a difficult time but we must listen to the expert advice: Nelson
The Euro 2020 finals tournament, which had been down to take place between June 12 and July 12 this summer, will now be played in 2021 from June 11 to July 11.
The decision by Uefa provides space for national leagues to finish their competitions this season.
Nelson stated that Uefa had done “the right thing” in rescheduling the tournament.
On Northern Ireland’s new proposed June date for the Euro 2020 play-off semi-final, he added: “We can’t be sure we will back playing football by then but that is the initial plan Uefa have laid out.”
The IFA chief executive also revealed talks are ongoing with the Northern Ireland Football League (NIFL) about how the Irish Premiership and the second and third tier leagues can be completed this season.
In a clear message to all those involved in the game here Nelson said: “This is a difficult time for all of us and we have to follow the public health guidance.
“What I am asking for now is for football to co-operate. We are a great big family in Northern Ireland from a football perspective and the more together we can be over the next few weeks and months, hopefully the better for all of us.”
While the next international dates have been pencilled in, NIFL officials will tonight meet with Irish Premiership clubs to speak about plans moving forward.
It is believed NIFL, in conjunction with the IFA, are putting together a number of proposals which will be discussed.
Last week the IFA announced that football across all levels in Northern Ireland would be suspended until April 4.
Given how events are unfolding with Covid-19 the authorities are aware that they will have to extend that date though there is a desire from all to put together the best possible scenarios whereby the season, in various leagues, could be finished.