Albion fans could be heading back to the Amex in large numbers at the start of next season.

There could even be spectators in the stands when the Seagulls finish their current campaign, at Arsenal on May 23.

But the rest of this term looks like a write-off for fans at the Amex and People's Pension Stadium.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson today revealed plans for a cautious return of supporters to attend top level sport in time for the last round of Prem fixtures as well as large summer events like the European Championships, Wimbledon and the Rugby League World Cup.

That development would be part of Step Three of an exit from lockdown, kicking in on May 17.

It would allow 10,000 fans at large outdoor, seated stadia and up to 25% or 50% of capacity at smaller venues.

Step Four would follow on June 21 and appears to place no limits on stadium capacities IF the Covid-19 virus is still in retreat.

Today's news could also be seen as promising for professional sports and teams which have yet to begin their seasons, notably cricket and speedway.

Sussex CCC played a shortened season last year with all fixtures behind closed doors and streamed free of charge.

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Their 2021 seasons starts on April 8 but the T20 fixtures, which attract large crowds, do not begin at Hove until June 12.

Eastbourne Eagles scrapped their 2020 campaign entirely.

Their fixtures for this year begin on May 1 but it is not clear whether it would be feasible for them to race behind closed doors.