Neil Warnock reveals Middlesbrough fan gesture at Bristol City and disagrees with Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on Saturday that new restrictions for the country will start on Thursday, yet, unlike back in March, EFL games will continue to be played behind closed doors.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has questioned whether it is the right decision to carry on playing at this time, yet Warnock thinks it’s important professional football continues.

“I read Pep Guardiola this morning saying we might have to close down but I disagree totally with that,” said Warnock ahead of Tuesday’s trip to Blackburn.

“It’s bad enough not having fans in the stadium but I don’t think Pep realises, not just the Premier League, but how important the lower divisions are for all the fans in the towns.

“At a time like this, mentally, to have your own team playing is vitally important so I’m glad the Government has realised that and has carried on with those guidelines.”

Warnock is also aware of the impacts a second lockdown will have lower down the football pyramid after managing at that level earlier in his career.

“I think when you’ve been down there, I managed in Sunday league collecting the subs and taking the washing after the game.I know what these clubs are up against,” added Warnock.

“I’m disappointed these clubs aren’t going to be able to play below a certain level because even at that level, for me, it’s vital to get that opportunity to play games.

“We have to get on with it and almost be the beacon in this tragic time. It’s strange for me. I'm here at a club and have never met the fans. I’ve never known anything like it.

“We turned up at Bristol City a few weeks ago and there were three Middlesbrough fans outside welcoming us into the car park, not watching the game, had just come to see us.

“That’s how much it means to them and I just want to put a smile on their faces at this difficult time.”

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