Speaking to Football Insider, former pro Noel Whelan has reacted to the suggestion that next season could be played behind closed doors to help lower the risk of further spikes in the current crisis.

Football has been on hold for almost two months in this country, now, and it looks likely at least another month will pass before we see any action.

Indeed, it could be an even longer period of time before supporters are let back into stadiums to watch their teams play, with the idea floating around that next season will start behind closed doors.

For Leeds United, that could mean a return to the Premier League without a crowd there to enjoy it, and Whelan, as a former Whites player, has had his say on that.

He said:

“It would be shocking news. Not just for Leeds but for every team.

“Fans’ outlet is football. They work hard all week to go to the football games and it is a family outing as well these days. It is one joy that they are taking out of a lot of people’s lives which they need in their lives.

“Football needs fans. It would be surreal. It might be televised but it is not the same.

“As much as everyone would be gutted safety and people’s lives come first.”

The Verdict

It would be a real blow to Leeds fans who have waited for so long to see their side back in the Premier League, only for them to not get to see it in front of them at Elland Road.

Of course, the Whites need to seal their return to the top flight first, but it looks likely that will be the case and then it remains to be seen when supporters get back in.