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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
Sport
Paul O'Hehir

League of Ireland season could resume behind-closed-doors

League of Ireland clubs have been sent a document today that outlines how the season could resume behind-closed-doors.

It follows a meeting of the FAI, National League Executive Committee and PFAI over video call this afternoon, reports the Irish Mirror .

Most of the guidelines focus on player safety in the midst of Covid-19 and have been largely shaped by FIFPro, the worldwide representatives for professional footballers.

The working document has been titled ‘Return To Football - Behind Closed Doors - but is entirely dependent on approval from the Government and HSE.

Clubs in both divisions have been asked to assess the document and send feedback to the FAI, NLEC and PFAI steering committee.

As it stands, the League of Ireland season is due to resume on June 19 even though some clubs are opposed to playing behind closed doors.

Niall Quinn of the FAI said in a statement: “The document offers a real platform for debate.

“Government will have the final say on when we return and under what circumstances, but it’s imperative on us to present the best options available to our clubs.”

Quinn added: "Analysis of the financial impact of playing behind doors is well underway with our clubs.

FAI Interim Deputy Chief Executive Niall Quinn (Niall Quinn)

“We are examining potential revenue streams from live streaming and other sources.”

NLEC chair Noel Byrne said: “This document is the next step in assessing what’s best for Irish football if the HSE and the Government give the green light.

“It’s vital that we examine what is needed in the event of games going on in closed stadiums, from a health and safety perspective.”

And PFAI boss Stephen McGuinness said: “Our players are keen to examine a return to football in a manner that is safe for all involved.

“This is very much a work in progress with all stakeholders working together towards the best solution possible.”

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