Peterhead manager Jim McInally reckons that if all the League 1 and League 2 clubs work together now and not follow different paths then football could return in October in front of fans.
McInally fears that if the 20 clubs fracture into those holding out for reconstruction or closed door games, then football could be off until 2021 in Scotland’s bottom two tiers.
Scotland’s longest serving boss believes that if reduced capacities and a season of three rounds of fixtures followed by a split are agreed now then a united approach will bring football back quicker.
Discussions about standing together have kicked off, with McInally explaining: “If clubs continue to look for different things, and not concentrate on what can be achieved by working together, then starting Leagues 1 and 2 will be delayed for a long time.”
“However, if we all agree that playing in front of fans, playing each other three times and then possibly having a six and four split it could come back in a few months. Obstacles will be overcome easier if we are all pushing in the one direction.”
McInally explained how by saying: “Our ground at Balmoor holds 3,200 fans however we could introduce social distancing measures and still get in about half of that. Some clubs have already told us they would be willing to do the same.”
“Pubs and restaurants should be open by October and that would also allow clubs to offer some sort of hospitality. That would help generate funds as well as the gate income from paying supporters.”
McInally added: “Players cannot train yet but if they can by August then they can get the Scottish FA recommended 6 weeks’ worth of work done and look for an October start.”
© Craig Stewart/ Peterhead Football Club
