County’s plea to conclude season
STOCKPORT County have called on the National League to conclude the current campaign once it is safe to return to football.
The club’s season has been put on hold indefinitely in line with other clubs in The National League, National League North and National League South competitions.
The season was halted on 16 March after the Football Association advised “all grassroots football in England is postponed for the foreseeable future” owing to the coronavirus outbreak, with matches initially scheduled to restart on 3 April.
But after a meeting of its board last week, a statement from the National League confirmed fixtures will be suspended indefinitely.
“In consideration of the very serious and unprecedented national public health emergency caused by coronavirus, the board has taken the decision to suspend the National League, National League North and National League South competitions indefinitely,” it read.
“The National League is obtaining specialist legal advice, is consulting regularly with the FA and other stakeholders, and is committed to involving its member clubs in a decision on how best to conclude the 2019-20 season.”
Edgeley Park has been closed due to the suspension of the current National League season, with staff members furloughed during the outbreak.
However, the club has said it will top up the Government’s commitment to cover 80% of basic pay to ensure staff are not left out of pocket.
And County have urged the National League to conclude the current season when it is safe to do so.
A statement on the club’s website read: “Once the pandemic is behind us, and it is safe to return to football, we would urge the National League to finish the current season and protect the integrity of the competition. Chief Executive, Jonathan Vaughan is currently engaged in discussions with the National League and other clubs to seek a resolution.
“As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to gather pace, our thoughts are with everyone during this difficult time. The wellbeing of our employees, supporters, local communities and everyone around the world is of far greater significance than football. We urge everyone to follow the Government’s advice to stay home, protect the NHS and save lives.
“We are incredibly proud of the community spirit, support and optimism shown by the residents of Stockport during these unprecedented times. Please continue to look out and support those who may be vulnerable within our community.
“Due to the suspension of the season and the shutdown of Edgeley Park, we have furloughed our players and staff through the Government’s Job Retention Scheme.
“The Club has made the decision to top-up the scheme to ensure no player or staff member is out of pocket at this difficult time.
“It remains our intention to keep supporters updated despite these unprecedented circumstances.
“Please stay home, stay safe and protect the NHS.”