The manager of Carlton Town FC hopes his end of season tournament idea will provide a boost for Nottingham football clubs.
Tommy Brookbanks believes that the event can offer a financial and mental lift to lower league teams who need it now more than ever.
His tournament plan would see a number of Notts teams form two competitive leagues and play each other during the spring.
The competition will look to go ahead only if the season is null and voided, which now looks increasingly likely.
Sixteen clubs have confirmed they are in favour of the tournament so long as fans can attend.
The national lockdown has meant that sides like Carlton Town FC have struggled without competitive football.
Brookbanks, 55, spoke about the effect that the pandemic has had on lower league football; he said: “Financially Nottingham clubs have suffered badly, and this would help the clubs massively.
“It’s looking highly likely that this season is gone, and I think we then just have to focus on a proper restart in August.
“We need to wait on the tiered system to see where we are because we can’t play a tournament again without crowds, we need the crowds to help the club.
“You can lose money but when you start losing your health as well then it does become serious.
Carlton Town manager Tommy Brookbanks
“We just need to get over these next few months.”
As well as the financial aspect, Brookbanks spoke about the consequences that a lack of football has been having on his players mental health.
“The mental health aspect is more important than the financial aspect.
“You can lose money but when you start losing your health as well then it does become serious.
“Some lads are still living at home with their parents and football was an outlet for them, and now it’s no longer there.
“Some are coming to the end of their careers which is massive, some are just starting out and it’s hard for them.
The big thing has been keeping them positive – trying to get them something to look forward to.”
The tournament has been planned to take place in March, April and May.
