Callum Ainley says that the Alex players cannot wait for the supporters to return to stadiums for the new season. The clubs will be hoping for a return to capacity as soon as government guidelines permit and Ainley stresses that no-one has enjoyed the experience of playing games in front of a limited number of people.

Ainley told the club’s official website: “You could really tell the difference when the supporters were allowed back for those couple of home games last season. We scored in the last minute in one of those games and would that have happened if the fans were not in? I’m not sure.

“Wints (Ryan Wintle) scored to win us the game and there is nothing like celebrating a last minute winner in front of the supporters. It was totally different with them not there and I don’t think anyone enjoyed it without them.

“They certainly make a difference, especially in the home games, when they can influence the game more and do us a favour as well.”