Blackpool FC want to bring 'feelgood factor' back for supporters missing their football

League One and League Two clubs are due to discuss the way forward in conference calls today.

This follows an EFL board meeting on Wednesday and the issuing of ‘return to training protocols’ to clubs.

That board meeting resulted in a statement that EFL clubs should not return to training before Monday, May 25. This replaces last month’s proposal of tomorrow (May 16) as the earliest start date for training.

The idea of playing behind closed doors to counter the spread of coronavirus has raised concerns among clubs due to the costs of staging matches in empty grounds.

Blackpool agree this would be far from ideal but the club would strive to make it work in order to resume competitive action.

Seasiders chief executive Ben Mansford said: “The health and wellbeing of all our staff, players and supporters is of paramount importance.

“With those considerations in mind, it is our view that some degree of competitive football returning has to be a sign of normality returning and will provide a feelgood factor for everyone.

“If we have to start the season behind closed doors, however disappointing and expensive that could be, we will try to overcome those challenges and get football back available to our supporters in the best possible way so we can all get behind the Mighty Pool again.”

It has been reported that most EFL clubs below Championship level believe the return to league action should be delayed until next season, with this season’s outstanding fixtures left unplayed.

Mansford added: “At this time, despite current media speculation, the club has not received any formal correspondence from the EFL regarding any vote to end the season and what will then happen to decide promotion and relegation issues.”