National League clubs 'will receive financial assistance from government before weekend' - reports

The deal is expected to be announced before the weekend so that the National League season can start on Saturday.

The grant will help cover revenue costs from fans not being allowed into stadiums.

It is thought the National League is hoping for around £2m-£3m per month for its clubs.

Clubs apparently received an email on Tuesday reassuring them that a deal was being worked on.

According to BBC Sport, National League chief executive, Mike Tattersall, said in the email that the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) was "working at pace… to design a package of support that will give the National League the reassurance it needs".

"This will include grants to cover essential revenue lost from fans not returning on 1 October as planned,” Mr Tattersall added. “The government recognises the immediate pressure National League clubs are under in respect of starting their season and are committed to play resuming in a viable way.”

Chesterfield travel Wealdstone on Saturday (3pm KO) for their first game of the campaign - if it goes ahead.