LLANDUDNO Albion manager Darren Jones has called for some “concrete guidance” from the Football Association of Wales regarding the current state of the grassroots game.

The Ardal Northern League side are looking to make their presence felt with a title challenge when competitive action gets underway, but when that is going to be is more uncertain than even following the Welsh Government’s decision to impose local lockdowns.

This will not have much of an impact on Albion’s ability to train given that most players come from the town, and Jones states that sessions are vital for those who depend on football for a release from the pressures of day-to-day life in the current climate.

He said: “In terms of appetite the lads are still eager to continue to train as it gives them a bit of normality and the release they’re missing from not having football.

“It also gives them the chance for social interaction which is as important as anything to maintain mental wellbeing. It’s not what we want but at the minute it’s the best we can do so will continue until told otherwise.

“I think these new guidelines have effectively made the chances of any football at our level near on impossible. You can’t hold a game with 30 people in total so until this is lifted there’s no chance.

“Away from the 30-man rule, there are also so many other things to consider. Will clubs still have a squad as lads lose interest and move on? How long will lads need to get match fit? Will the weather have an adverse effect depending on start date? What, realistically, is best outcome in games played, one round and no cups? Relegation and promotion?”

Jones also outlined his concerns regarding the lasting impact that the coronavirus restrictions will have on the domestic game beyond this season, with may clubs on the brink due to a lack of sponsorship and no gate receipts coming in.

“I think it could be as drastic as some senior sides ceasing to exist which impacts all the way down the junior sections,” he added.

“When you consider that participation is likely be affected as players become used to not having football or finding other ways to fill their time, leaving for clubs over the border etc then it’s serious.

“Add to that the effect this is having on players physical, mental and in some cases financial wellbeing then the effects are long term.

“I just hope the powers that be can put some concrete guidance out there so all clubs aren’t left in limbo planning to compete in a league that realistically will never even have a ball kicked.”