LLANDUDNO manager Sean Eardley remains conflicted regarding a possible start to the new season amid coronavirus pandemic concerns.

The JD Cymru North side are anxiously awaiting further announcement from the Welsh Government and Football Association of Wales following the ‘fire-break’ lockdown, which has brought to a halt any hopes of competitive action beginning before the end of the year.

Eardley arrived back at Maesdu Park earlier this year after a hugely successful stint with Caernarfon Town, but he is remaining positive amid calls for some semblance or normality that is undoubtedly needed.

He said: “My heart is saying yes, but probably not until the new year, and even then, a structure would need to be implemented and put in place as completing 30 games in Tier 2 would be difficult.

“On that, my head is saying no due to possible protocols having to be put in place. Clubs cannot go half a season/a full season with no spectators, it’s not sustainable, then making the grounds Covid compliant and having the manpower to ensure this may be a struggle. I’ll always remain optimistic though, a sense of normality is needed.”

Eardley added that everyone at the club is “desperate” for the new campaign to start, highlighting the exciting developments going on behind the scenes since the appointment of new chairman Andrew Croston.

“A new look first team, reserves, academy and youth teams, a new board, the supporters and fantastic volunteers have put a lot of work in up to this point. We just want to reap the rewards of that now,” he added.

“With assistance from the FAW and everyone clubbing together, we’d be confident in following protocols and making sure Maesdu Park would be safe going forward.

The biggest thing about not having a season would be matchday income, having 15 home games and that matchday feel for everyone mentally would be a travesty also.

“With the youngsters, as spoken about previously, there’s a threat of them choosing another active path and taking up other hobbies and interests.

“The big picture is remaining active, but we don’t just want to develop young boys and girls as players. We feel we have a responsibility to develop them as people, and we want to aid that, not having them around will hamper this.”