Football fans are coming back! Government gives the green light to return of supporters

Cobblers supporters could be returning to the PTS Academy Stadium as early as next month after Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed that national lockdown will end on December 2.

According to BBC Sport, a maximum of 4,000 fans - or 50 per cent capacity, whichever figure is lower - are to be allowed at outdoor events in the lowest-risk areas when the national lockdown in England ends on December 2.

Boris Johnson is holding a press conference on Monday evening where he will lay-out the next phase of the government's approach to tackling coronavirus. He will also make a statement to the House of Commons, which MPs will then vote on.

Northampton Town tweeted: "We acknowledge and welcome the latest Government announcement that supporters may soon be able to return to stadiums. We await further details on this and details of the tier in which Northampton will be placed.

"In the meantime please follow the guidelines, the lower we can all drive the infection rates, the sooner we will be able to see you again. Thank you for your support #letfansin #ProudToBe"

Up to 2,000 fans at no more than 50 per cent capacity will be permitted in tier two regions, but there will be no crowds allowed in the highest-risk areas under the new COVID restrictions in England. It is not yet known what category Northants will fall under - an announcement is expected on Thursday - but the county was in the lowest tier of restrictions before the national lockdown was introduced on November 5.

Elite sports has continued behind closed doors during England's four-week lockdown, while grassroots and amateur sport has been halted since November 5.