Plans being 'drawn up' for Portsmouth fans to be back inside Fratton Park next month - reports

Mail Online claims that plans are being ‘drawn up’ by the government for supporters to return to stadia in December, with the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCIM) submitting plans to the Cabinet Office.

The report suggests that once the second national lockdown period is lifted, areas in tiers one and two coronavirus alert levels could see spectators allowed to attend matches, subject to certain conditions. Social distancing rules would apply at reduced capacities.

Before the lockdown period, Portsmouth was on a ‘medium’ alert – placing the city in tier one. In the seven days to November 12, there were 288.5 cases per 100,000 with 620 new cases – that highest in Hampshire.

DCIM secretary Oliver Dowden wrote on Twitter: ‘Constructive conversation with football leaders on governance & £, diversity & getting fans back.

‘I want to work together with football to make progress on important issues for the game's long-term future.

‘Discussions to continue as we start our fan-led review of governance.’

Pompey fans haven’t been at Fratton Park for more than eight months due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. That was a 2-2 draw with Fleetwood on Tuesday, March 10.

All the Blues’ matches in the 2020-21 season have been played behind closed doors.

Pompey were hoping to stage a pilot game with 1,000 fans against Wigan in September before plans were scrapped by the government.