Fans ready to watch Hucknall following approval by the FA

Hucknall town manager Andy Graves was pleased with his new players.

It follows a long-awaited policy change by The Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport and approval from the FA.

Phil Henry, the club’s designated COVID officer, welcomed the news in a statement on the club website.

"The club are delighted that Government and the FA have today (19th August) agreed a phased return to spectator attendance in the National league System and feeder leagues.

“What follows is for the safety of our supporters’ spectators and visitors and is based on the necessity to manage the COVID-19 health emergency and allow people to safely view and enjoy the sport they love.

“The Phase 1 return of spectators between 22nd to 30th August means the club is allowed a maximum of 150 spectators (based on minimum ground grading requirements and 15% capacity under those

rules).

“Phase 2 return – after completion of minimum of one game at stage 1 (pre-season ) and from 31st August 2020 the club will be allowed a maximum capacity of 300 spectators based on minimum ground grading requirements and 30% capacity under those rules).”

On the field Graves has been left impressed by his new summer acquisitions following Saturday’s 5-0 win over Linby and the Selston draw.

He said: “The new lads are really impressive and are showing their potential if we can keep them and educate them in the ways we want.

“I am pleased with the quality. We were comfortable against Linby, Selston was a step up for us and they were good tests.

“We have not finalised what the starting eleven will be. We have players fighting for every position which was brilliant.”

The Linby game featured a trialist striker, with Graves keen to run his eye over the un-named player.

Graves says he can play at a higher level and will feature again this weekend.