Football is back! FA reveal when National League season can start

The National League season can get underway in September, the Football Association has confirmed.
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There is no official date for when it will start, but it will be no earlier than September 5.

Competitive training can now begin, with groups limited to 30 people.

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From August, competitive matches, such as pre-season friendlies, can take place.

The National League can start in September, the FA has confirmed.The National League can start in September, the FA has confirmed.
The National League can start in September, the FA has confirmed.

Clubs will have to follow strict guidance and can only return to action once they have completed the necessary risk assessments, the FA said.

Some of the recommendations include avoiding goal celebrations, equipment must be disinfected and players should arrive at training already in their kit.

Clubs should start considering how they would go about allowing supporters back into stadiums, ready for when this can take place, the FA added.

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Announcing that competitive grassroots football can return, James Kendall, FA director of football development, said: “The past few months have been some of the most challenging times not just for football, but across society, and today’s news will be welcomed by the grassroots football community all over the country.

“Now that we are able to look ahead to the new season, it’s crucial that we continue to do all we can to follow safety measures, both as advised by the government and specifically for football.

“I would encourage anyone returning to competitive grassroots football to take the time to read this guidance, prepare thoroughly and to adopt our recommended approach to phasing football back in. I would also like to thank you for playing your vital part in helping our great game to get going again.”

On Friday Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the aim is to get fans back in stadiums by October with pilots taking place before then. It is hoped that National League clubs will be allowed to let supporters return in September, although it is likely to be reduced attendances.

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"We will pilot larger gatherings in venues like sports stadiums with a view to a wider reopening in the autumn," Johnson said.

"From October, we intend to bring back audiences in stadiums.

"Again, these changes must be done in a Covid-secure way, subject to the successful outcome of pilots."