Return to football update

By James Gordon

The Northern Premier League welcomes the information relating to the return of football.

We are excited about the potential return to action, with a provisional season start date for steps 3 and 4 of Saturday September 19, subject to further approval.

Further detailed information will be provided to clubs after Sunday's League Management Committee meeting.

In the interim, clubs are urged to continue to follow the guidance currently in place and as per Government guidelines.

The information released by the FA relating to competitive football:

The FA strongly recommend a phased return to competitive football, with no fixtures taking place before the end of July.

During this time competitive training can occur, with groups limited to 30 people including coaches. Competitive matches, including pre-season friendlies, can begin from Saturday, August 1st.

The FA and the Leagues are aiming for a September start of competitive matches in the NLS; however, this is subject to change in accordance with Government guidance and approval for paying spectators, which may be published from time to time.

NLS (or relevant FA Competition) fixtures are proposed to commence on:
• Step 1 & 2: No earlier than Saturday, 5th September 2020
• Steps 3 & 4: Saturday, 19th September 2020
• Steps 5 & 6: From Saturday 5th September 2020

Clubs must complete their Action Plans for all aspects of this document as soon as possible to ensure that Leagues are able to start against these timetables.

Where next?

Brig return to training without Waddecar Bamber Bridge have returned to training without top scorer Alistair Waddecar, who is awaiting surgery on a hernia issue.
NPL player movements #11 Player movements registered with the Northern Premier League from Tuesday 14th July to 11am on Friday 17th July.

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