League One bosses growing optimistic that crowds WILL be in attendance when Sunderland return to action

While it is highly unlikely that clubs will be able to welcome in 100 per cent of their current capacity, there is a growing belief that the government will give the green light for some level of fans to watch games when the League One season kicks-off – albeit with social distancing measures in place.

No firm restart date for the 2020/21 campaign is currently set – with clubs set to vote next week on two potential season start dates, of which September 12 is thought to be the preferred option.

And Portsmouth chief executive Mark Catlin is the latest figure in the league to suggest that the return of football could be accompanied by the return of supporters too.

"I am hoping an element of fans will be allowed in for the start of the season,” he said, speaking to The News.

“However, that is out of our control and really a decision for the government.

“I don't like to comment on things which I don’t know about, but I would be surprised if we were back for the start of the season at 100 per cent of our capacity. If there was a reduced capacity – and I know that is unpalatable – but we must maximise whatever revenue we can.

“So if fans are allowed back in whatever numbers, we will try to accommodate to the best of our ability.

“I am assuming it will be on the percentage of your capacity, but that will be heavily dependent on individual stadiums and their ability to enable social distancing in and out of the stadium.”

Catlin feels that clubs with modern stadiums, such as Sunderland, will be at an advantage when it comes to socially distancing supporters.

"There is a chance the more modern larger stadiums with big concourses and numerous entry and exit routes may be more advantageous than a club like Pompey,” he added.

“Clearly the structure and design of Fratton Park was built in the time before modern stadiums.”