Welsh clubs get boost over return for the fans

CHAMPIONSHIP clubs have been given the boost that supporters might be allowed back into games from the start of October after Millwall reportedly started planning for the return of fans.

Matches in the top two tiers of English football have taken place behind closed doors since mid-June in light of the coronavirus pandemic, after the action on the pitch was postponed for three months.

Regarding the return of spectators to live sporting events, Boris Johnson said last month that this could happen from October, with pilot events taking place beforehand.

These pilots – including cricket matches at the Oval and Edgbaston, Glorious Goodwood in horse racing and snooker at The Crucible – were cancelled over fears of a second wave of Covid-19.

It is perfectly feasible fans could be given the green light in England, but Cardiff City and Swansea City fans, in Wales, would not necessarily be allowed to follow suit.

First Minister Mark Drakeford has already warned mass gatherings at sporting events are still a long way off in Wales, refusing to commit to an October return.

Having said that, The South London Press report Millwall are readying themselves for fans to return to The Den from October in the upcoming 2020/21 season, albeit on a limited basis.

The report claims an expected capacity of just under 6,000 fans could be allowed in, with the new campaign due to begin in mid-September, meaning the opening few rounds of fixtures would still be played behind closed doors.

This would include the 2,600 who have renewed their season tickets being allowed to attend every match, with fewer than 1,000 more still up for grabs.