The worrying impacts a lack of supporters could have on Middlesbrough's transfer plans

Arrangements had been made for fans to partially be allowed back into stadiums from October 1, yet the rapid spike in Covid-19 cases has put a halt to those proposals.

It was announced on Tuesday that spectators may not be able to return to sporting events until at least the end of March, a blow which would have big financial implications, especially for clubs lower down the football pyramid.

In the Championship, Middlesbrough and plenty of their league rivals were looking to make more signings before next month’s October 16 domestic deadline.

Yet last week’s news may force clubs to reassess potential transfer targets.

Following Saturday’s 1-1 at QPR, Boro assistant Kevin Blackwell was asked about the clubs transfer plans and immediately referred to the supporter situation.

"What happened on Tuesday with no fans coming in, hopefully they will review it, but I don’t know how many businesses can survive with no money coming in,” said Blackwell.

“Is it right then to ask owners to start slashing out fortunes, it’s going to cost you £10million to sign a player but by the way it will cost you £10million to run your club. There's a £20million deficit and I think anyone who does mathematics knows that does not work.”

QPR boss Mark Warburton also said that Rangers’ transfer plans may be affected due to a decrease in anticipated revenue, a point Blackwell reiterated.

“I know at Middlesbrough we have analysts looking at players throughout Europe and the UK and you feel for them in a way.

“They've been working on this all the time thinking we might be able to do it.

“It is a shift and I think everyone wants some more foundational work about this is what football’s going to do, this is what we can do and what we can’t do.

Blackwell has also spoken about the successful pilot events which took place at nine EFL games earlier this month, including at Boro.

“I don’t see how we can have 1000 in one week and then no one in next week,” added Blackwell after the QPR game.

"I’ve been very impressed with QPR again today, there’s been liquids, stewards, it’s been very well organised.”

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