Little or no room for fans to attend games when League of Ireland returns

The 200 people allowed into League of Ireland games when the season resumes must include players, coaches, medical and security staff and media.

It means there will be little or no wriggle room for any fans to attend the matches until at least August 10, when phase four of reopening the country kicks into play.

Then, up to 500 people will be allowed and that will open the door for a small number of spectators at games.

Clubs were informed of the 200 person decision in written communication from the FAI late last night.

They were also reminded that players are banned from taking showers after matches until told otherwise.

In April, a 40-page document had outlined how a maximum of 214 people would be allowed to attend a behind-closed-doors game.

Those figures included a total of 42 players, 20 technical staff, five match officials, 20 ball boys or girls and their supervisors, 10 stewards and two Gardai, but more outside.

Also included were up to 28 broadcast staff including commentators and cameramen, 12 journalists, eight photographers and eight cleaning staff.

A view of the Bohs team warming up (©INPHO/Donall Farmer)

Medical personnel were also accounted for along with essential club / stadium staff and a maximum of 15 VIP officials from the two teams, 10 of which are the home side. But three months on from the publication of that document, it remains to be seen how individual clubs might tailor the figures based on what is required. Meanwhile, clubs have been told they cannot sign players from the Leinster Senior League before the July 31 transfer deadline. The LSL season has been extended in the wake of the Covid pandemic and won’t be finished by the time the League of Ireland window shuts. The FAI told clubs last night that signing LSL players won’t be allowed. Elsewhere, Jamie McDonagh will leave Derry City today and sign for Glentoran. Sligo Rovers were also keen on the winger.