National League in discussions over rescue package

The National League have confirmed they are in discussions with the government about a financial package that would enable their clubs to operate during the 2020/21 season without fans in the grounds.

Plans for the new season, which is due to kick-off next weekend, were thrown into chaos this week when it was revealed that the return of fans at the elite level in England from October 1 would be paused.

The National League, North and South divisions were set to start from October 3 and a decision is yet to be made on whether it will still go ahead.

Some clubs want the season to begin as scheduled while others would only want to play if there is financial support forthcoming.

A joint statement from clubs in National League North was released ahead of yesterday's (Thursday) National League Board meeting and stated 81 per cent of sides, including Kettering Town, Leamington and Brackley Town, in the division would not want to start the season unless there was a financial support package in place.

Once the meeting had been completed, the National League released a statement in which they said: "In recognition of the financial uncertainty facing its member clubs, The National League is actively engaged with Government, with the assistance of The Football Association, to secure a critical financial support package, and it is hoped this can be announced very soon.

“It is imperative the revenue shortfall caused by the pause to the safe return of spectators is responsibly addressed so each club can operate sustainably over the course of the forthcoming season.”