Non-league clubs should be demanding a Scottish Government bailout due to the very real risk of the season being scrapped.
That’s the view of former Ayrshire MP, Brian Donohoe who fears a domino effect of club’s dying unless those in power make a financial intervention.
Mr Donohoe, a keen supporter of the grade, believes there is next to no chance of fans being allowed back into grounds this year and insists clubs should be lobbying now in a bid to force Ministers to act.
He said: “I understand the desire for football to return but people have to wake up and smell the coffee. This is very serious and until there is a vaccine we simply cannot, in my view, get fans back safely.
“Clubs focus should be on demanding the Scottish Government loosen the purse strings to help them through this crisis.
“There should be grants available to help clubs cover their lost income and help them survive. There is money in the pot for this for all it would cost.
“I know all too well that these clubs are an integral part of their communities."
During his time as a Labour MP, Mr Donohoe helped broker a lucrative deal for Emirates Airlines to sponsor the Scottish Junior Cup.
“I remember we had a harsh winter for two or three months and clubs couldn’t get games on," recalled the former Central Ayrshire MP who was awarded a knighthood last year.
"Emirates arranged for every club to get something in the region of £1,000 to see them through a difficult period.
"Clubs are going to need help to survive, it’s as simple as that.”
