Dundee will refund fans for missing games
The possibility of fans getting refunds on the unused portions of their season tickets has moved significantly closer.
The SPFL could call time on the 2019-20 campaign following a series of meetings this week, with Tuesday’s board meeting to be followed by conference calls with all clubs on Wednesday.
If that happens, all parties will quickly switch their attention to the question of compensation for the cancelled chunk of the season. And Dundee are leading the way, with a promise to pay reimbursements.
A statement from the club’s managing director, John Nelms, said: “It would be our intention, if the season is brought to an early conclusion, where practical, to reimburse those season-ticket holders for the remainder of the season that was not played.
“This will be further assessed for timelines etc, as we make our way through the claims process.
“We have often said that the club is a family and that remains true throughout this situation.”
The Dark Blues – who are putting football staff including players and management on furlough – have been left grateful for the support they themselves have received.
John Bennett, the owner of Dens Park and a former Dundee United director, has suspended the club’s rent payments in recent weeks.
Meanwhile, should the SPFL decide instead to play out the rest of the season behind closed doors, fans could be able to watch the action live on television.
UEFA has lifted the ban on showing Saturday games with a 3pm kick-off live on television.
It follows lobbying by both the Football Association and the Scottish FA, with the English Premier one of the “Big Five” Leagues desperate to avoid huge cancellation fees from broadcasters.
The blackout, which is in place during the English and Scottish seasons, was put in place to protect attendances at matches.
With crowds currently banned at all events, it is no longer required.
Players’ union representatives have voiced concerns about the playing of games behind closed doors at a time when coronavirus restrictions still apply in general society.
▪ Former Dunfermline boss, Stephen Kenny, was last night installed as Republic of Ireland manager.
Kenny replaces Mick McCarthy with immediate effect, following UEFA’s announcement that the Euro 2020 qualifying play-offs would again be delayed by the coronavirus pandemic.
Previously the Under-21 boss, Kenny was set to step up on August 1 as McCarthy’s contract was to end on July 31, after the Euro 2020 finals were originally due to finish.