The coronavirus pandemic has had a massive impact on football.

Domestic leagues across the world were shut down back in March and the action didn't return for another four months. 

The game is rather different post-lockdown. 

In England, we've seen the introduction of water breaks and an increased number of substitutes used.  

Then, of course, there's the massive issue of playing matches behind closed doors and that isn't just a problem in the Premier League.

Supporters have not been allowed to attend live games since March, with the remainder of the 2019/20 campaign finished in empty stadiums. 

Football just isn't the same without the roar of the crowd, it's that simple. Games feel flat and rather dull these days.

Stadiums have been empty since lockdown

But thankfully, it seems fans will be returning soon and according to The Sun, supporters will start returning to stadiums as soon as next month.  

Last night, the Government announced a further easing of lockdown rules and that includes 'pilot' sporting events to be trialled with a crowd.

Rugby matches, racing at Goodwood and the Snooker World Championships are on the list of approved events. 

The Premier League returns on September 12 and fans will be trialled later that month, with the hope of a full rollout in October. 

Crowds will return in England soon

Capacity will be capped for the foreseeable future and all fans will likely be urged not to chant or shout for fear of spreading coronavirus. 

There will be strict crowd management in place and even one-way systems around the grounds, with all seating adhering to social distancing measures. 

No trials are currently scheduled for the north west, which remains under stricter control for now.

Crowds won't be trialled in the north west

While things will certainly be different, getting crowds back into stadiums - in any capacity - is a good thing.