The Football Association admits clubs are ‘battling to survive’ and insists it will work alongside the Government to ensure the return of supporters ‘as soon as it’s safe to do so'.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson revealed that the planned return of crowds to sporting events from October 1 had been suspended indefinitely and test events, which have allowed up to 1,000 supporters present, would be halted.

That dealt to a blow to clubs in the Premier League, EFL and National League who have worked to ensure their stadia would be able to facilitate an agreed number of fans while adhering to social distancing guidelines.

Rovers released a statement saying that ‘football is facing an impending financial crisis’ as a result of Covid-19, and saw their request to host a pilot fixture last weekend rejected because of local infection rates.

Accrington Stanley had hoped to allow fans back for this weekend’s game with Oxford United, after eight games went ahead with up to 1,000 in attendance last weekend, but have since announced that will be played behind closed doors.

The Prime Minister said he recognised the impact of such a decision on clubs and that talks would now begin on providing financial support, something the FA is keen to learn more about.

Their statement read: “We understand the Government’s decision, as the health of the nation is the priority. However, it is important to recognise that the impact on football will be huge.

“Clubs up and down the country are really struggling, and many will have been looking forward to crowds coming back in order to provide much-needed income during these difficult times.

“Many, at all levels of the game, are battling to survive.

“We welcome the Government’s commitment to provide financial support to clubs and will continue to work together on a return of crowds as soon as it’s safe to do so.

“We also welcome the continuation of the grassroots game, and the elite game behind closed doors, to help support the physical and mental wellbeing of millions of players across the country, with outdoor exercise more important now than ever.”