THE situation in regard to coronavirus is likely to postpone the start of a new season still further in the lower tiers of the Football Association of Wales structure.

And there are growing fears that leagues such as the Costcutter could be faced with the prospect of the campaign being wiped out.

As it stands, clubs will be permitted to arrange friendlies against fellow league teams for a period of three weeks as from Monday (October 19) but that could change depending on Welsh Government Covid-19 guidelines.

The FAW is expected to make a further announcement after the three weeks but it could be that competitive football will not take place this year.

Although the FAW has not given an indication when leagues below the Cymru Premier can start the 2020-2021 season, a source said: “Everything is up in the air at the moment, but it is extremely doubtful that league action will be permitted in the foreseeable future.”

The football authority has laid down strict rules in respect of friendly games, including all those involved being temperature tested beforehand.

Clubs are required to appoint a Covid-19 compliance officer, all participants remain socially distanced during breaks in play, while coaching staff and substitutes must spread out and avoid sharing a dug-out or bench.

Water bottles or other refreshment containers should in no circumstances be shared and only people from one household should travel together in a vehicle.

Throw-ins will be replaced by pass-ins, there should be no hand contact such as fist-bumps and no spitting on the pitch.

For clubs training indoors the number of players and coaches permitted will be dependent on the nature of the facility.

In line with latest government advice, coaches, first-aiders and team helpers should wear face coverings and matches are not permitted indoors.