FOOTBALL clubs operating below JD Cymru Premier standard will not see competitive league action until mid-November at the very earliest.

The Football Association of Wales released their plans to move to stages one and two of their next stage – phase three – from Monday, September 21.

This will enable senior and youth sides to take part in outdoor contact training in groups of no more than 15, including coaches, and the number must not exceed 30 at any point.

Should this part of the plan go well and no further restrictions are put in place by the Welsh Government with cases soaring across the country, the governing body will permit two sides from the same club – first-team and second unit – to compete in friendly fixtures from October 5 and 12.

The FAW also announced plans for stage five of phase three to begin on October 19., all being well. This will involve friendly matches but only against teams operating in the same league with no fans allowed to attend.

These plans might be subject to more change, which is dependant on Welsh Government advice.

In regards to a possible plan for the new season and cup matches getting underway following the three-week friendly period, the FAW has no confirmed date as yet but did confirm that there would be no supporters allowed into the grounds initially.

FAW officials advised all clubs to read the protocols surrounding Covid-19 as they look to make a smooth transition to the next stage, which comes on the back of Connah’s Quay Nomads getting a number of positive tests prior to their Europa League fixture last week.

The JD Cymru Premier was permitted to resume earlier this month after being granted “elite athlete” status by the Welsh Government.