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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
Sport
Gareth Fullerton

Glentoran manager Mick McDermott says time is right to bring back fans

Glentoran manager Mick McDermott believes the Irish League is ready to welcome fans back to games.

The Danske Bank Premiership was the first league in the UK to accommodate supporters when the season kicked off in October, with attendances capped.

All games have been played behind closed doors since December 19, but it is understood Irish FA chiefs are looking at the possibility of admitting a number of fans to the Irish Cup final on May 21.

McDermott believes with various restrictions easing around other sectors of society, the Irish League should be allowed to open the turnstiles to limited supporters.

"The 500 that was earlier in the season was set as an arbitrary number, but surely it shouldn't just be a number. It should be based on capacity," he told Belfast Live.

"But 500 into Warrenpoint and 500 into the National Stadium doesn't make sense.

"I am sure we could safely bring in 2,000 to the Oval, and the National Stadium could bring in up to 4,000. I think it is time to consider it.

"I would request it. Larne made a request, I believe Linfield put it on record they would like to see fans back. I think every manager, player and fan would like them back in the ground. If it is safe to do it then let's do it.

"Covid numbers appear to be coming down and vaccine numbers are going up. Our clubs have proved they can do it in a safe way. They meet the standards and criteria needed.

"It has been a tough year, but this could be a piece of hope before the summer comes in."

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