THE start for York City’s season appears to have been given the greenlight after the Government confirmed it will give financial support to the National League.

Some clubs in Step 2 had previously stated that they would not enter their FA Cup ties, which take place this weekend, without aid being given to them by Government.

On Tuesday, the FA confirmed that ‘Elite’ clubs - those in Steps 1 and 2 - would not be able to host any fans in their grounds, which follows on from last week’s announcement by Government that crowds returning to ‘Elite’ grounds from October 1 was to be suspended.

Those decisions led to calls from clubs in both the English Football League and the National League for Government to give backing to the clubs as they look to begin their seasons without the vital matchday revenue.

Nigel Huddleston MP, the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Minister told the House of Commons: “Yesterday, we provided the National League with an assurance that financial support from the Government will be forthcoming so that they can start this season on Saturday.

“We have asked for detailed returns from all major spectator sports to see what support they need.

“We expect those returns by the end of today and any club in immediate financial distress should alert their sport’s governing body.

“The Government’s support needs to go to that are in most need. The criteria is being developed by a fantastic team at DCMS literally as we speak.

“It will absolutely be based on gate receipts. The purpose of this financial support is to support those who are most impacted by the October 1 decision and therefore that will drive the criteria.

“I can’t give the details today because we’re working on those details as I speak.”

York City’s 2020/21 campaign will get underway on Saturday with a trip to Warrington Rylands in the second round qualifying of the FA Cup, before their Vanarama National League North season begins with a home fixture against Chorley at Bootham Crescent on Tuesday.