DON’T GET STUCK IN NEUTRAL
Clubs to find out if they can play at home
CLUBS should find out tomorrow if neutral venues are still required to complete the season.
As it stands, four grounds – believed to be Aviva Stadium, Thomond Park, Tallaght Stadium and Athlone Town Stadium – are chalked down for closed-doors matches.
But the Government’s accelerated lifting of lockdown restrictions means “everything is under review”, according to one source involved in restart efforts.
FAI chiefs will present clubs with a financial plan tomorrow that they believe can pave the way for a return to action.
It will take days – if not longer – before clubs digest their tailor made packages and return a collective ‘yes’ or ‘no’.
But tomorrow’s talking points will also centre on whether clubs can host matches at their own grounds, considering the Government measures.
The need for ongoing Covid-19 testing will also be discussed. Other sporting codes will return this summer without testing.
Up to now, the four clubs in Europe – Dundalk, Shamrock Rovers,
Bohemians and Derry City – have been tested on three occasions, with another test due tomorrow.
The other six top flight clubs are officially allowed back to training on Monday under new FAI guidelines.
But only Shelbourne are considering it and even at that, the squad held a conference call with the PFAI last night to seek answers over health and safety concerns.
Some First Division clubs have indicated that they won’t be rushing back any time soon.
A Galway United spokesman said last night:
“All at Galway United are keen to return to training and playing football as soon as practical.
“However, we are also conscious that we need to do so in an environment that secures the health and safety of all involved.
“In addition to a safe environment, Galway United – like all clubs – need clarity on the financial support that will be provided to enable a successful and sustainable return.
“Once we have all this information, we can take some time to discuss with all clubs and the FAI on how to make the return to football work, both safely and financially.”
And Finn Harps acknowledged that clubs may need to raise additional funds themselves to supplement whatever package the FAI puts on the table.
“We know there will be hurdles to overcome financially, as the potential for football without fans removes the vast majority of our income streams,” read a club statement.
“Regardless of what form any return to football in 2020 may take, we are acutely aware that we will undoubtedly need to raise additional funding.”