United Counties League asks clubs to explain whether re-starting season would be financially viable

Chairman writes letter to clubs...
United Counties League teams are being asked to state how playing would affect finances.United Counties League teams are being asked to state how playing would affect finances.
United Counties League teams are being asked to state how playing would affect finances.

Clubs in the United Counties League are being asked to state whether resuming the season is financially viable for them.

Clubs placed in tier three are no longer able to entertain fans when lockdown ends on Wednesday, as they had been allowed to do previously this season.

This means the majority of these clubs would be running at a loss hosting matches.

Lincolnshire, Leicestershire and Warwickshire being placed into tier three - 70 per cent of the Premier Division clubs and 50 per cent of Division One - while Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire are in tier two at present.

In an email to clubs, UCL chairman Alan Poulain wrote: "It should first be stated that key objective from the FA is to try and conclude the season and offer promotion and relegation to clubs so that the new NLS (National League System) structure can be implemented for season 2021-22. How we achieve that will depend on everyone’s opportunity to play.

"For these clubs (in tier three), football can restart from December 2. Players and officials of clubs can travel between tiers as they are exempt from the rule of travel, due to their status in the National League System.

"Match Officials living in tier three can also travel to officiate at all matches. However, there cannot be any spectators allowed into tier three area grounds, resulting in no clubhouse facility needed or allowed.

"This also applies over the Christmas period, so when other restrictions are lifted for five days, spectators will still not be allowed in tier three grounds. Spectators that live in tier three cannot travel to a ground in tier two to watch football."

"Fixtures in both the Premier Division and Division One can continue as scheduled, and the FA Vase will continue. It is recognised that there will be a financial implication for clubs, particularly those in tier three, but the FA are keen for the season to continue and the league will support this for clubs that are able/willing to play."

Clubs with any concerns about fiannces are asked to contact the league by Tuesday.