SSE Airtricity League clubs have agreed to give the FAI another fortnight to finalise a financial plan that could pave the way for behind closed doors football.
The Strategic Working Group, comprising of FAI top brass and representatives of the clubs, met again yesterday.
The FAI requested two more weeks to try to finalise a package that, the association hopes, will persuade sceptical clubs about the benefits of resuming league football behind closed doors.
It is believed there is a 50-50 split in the Premier Division over the proposed move.
The Strategic Working Group is scheduled to meet again next Thursday but clubs are happy enough to wait another fortnight for a firm proposal, given that UEFA's next Executive Committee meeting was to take place on May 27 but will now be on June 17.
UEFA had wanted all the leagues to confirm their plans by that May 27 date, but they now have more time to work out a roadmap to return.
Clubs had hoped that an FAI proposal would have been tabled by now, but they are willing to give more time.
Meanwhile, a survey by the Irish Supporters Network (ISN) has found that fans have mixed views on how the League should proceed this year - but are supportive of measures to help their clubs through the Covid-19 pandemic
Asked if they support ‘Behind Closed Doors’ for the League, 52.7% of participants said they were in favour with 47.3% against.
Also asked how supporters should be kept involved if closed games do proceed, a third (33.5%) of respondents stated a preference for a fully paid streaming service where everyone pays a fee followed by a service that would be available free to certain groups within the supporter base, i.e. season ticket holders or club members (31.1%).
A total of 27.3% stated a preference that if it’s not safe for supporters, it’s not safe for anyone else.
Just 8.7% of people stated a preference for a lottery-type system that would allow some fans to attend in small numbers while socially distancing inside the ground.
Asked if they would support measures to not allow away fans in grounds until social distancing measures are lifted, 65% of people were in favour, with 35% against.
