YORK City have confirmed a "further delay" to the opening of the LNER Community Stadium, with the new ground not ready to host matches until after October 9.

York had previously publicly expressed their hope to begin the 2020/21 season at the Monks Cross ground and in time for new season, which gets underway in the FA Cup on October 3.

The Vanarama National League North season then starts with a home fixture against Chorley on Tuesday, October 6.

However, a spokesperson from the City of York Council has said that it is "incorrect" to label this as a further delay as the move to the new ground was still to be confirmed.

York City's statement read: "The club has received information from City of York Council which confirms a further delay to the LNER Community Stadium."

"The council have advised the club that the stadium will not play host to York City Football Club games until after 9th October.

"Therefore, with regret we can confirm that, should the season begin as scheduled on the 3rd October, York City Football Club will not start the season at the new stadium as we had hoped and planned for."

In response, the City of York Council said: "While aware of the club's ambition to start the season in the new stadium at no point was this option confirmed.

"It is incorrect therefore to assert a further delay."

York City's statement continued: "To say that the club is disappointed and frustrated would be an immense understatement and we know our fans will be feeling the same.

"This is followed by government advice today which suggests that plans for fans to return to sporting events will not go ahead.

"We’re aware of this and we are seeking official information and guidance from the National League before confirming to fans how this will impact the start of the season.

"Should fans not be allowed to attend games, the club has made it a priority to find new ways in which to connect with fans remotely, by introducing new digital content.

"We have plans to live stream league home games."

The City of York Council added: "We will continue to work with the clubs to enable them to occupy the stadium as soon as possible.

"We continue to work with all our partners to make a success of what will be an incredible asset for the community and hope to make a formal announcement soon."