Mark Catlin has played down talk October 1 is when Pompey fans can return to Fratton Park.

The Blues boss has responded to reports the EFL has earmarked the date as the moment fans can go back to stadiums amid the coronavirus crisis.

Catlin insisted he’s not been informed of any specific time frame for football to be played behind closed doors, as the game battles to come up with the serious challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

He said: ‘That’s not something I’ve heard.

‘There’s so much speculation around at the moment and rumours seems to quickly become fact.

‘I’ve not been personally advised of any date, so October 1 doesn’t mean anything to me.’

There remains a huge amount of uncertainty over the way forward and possible end to the suspension for English football.

Talks have taken place between the government and football authorities over moves to restart the season, but there is hesitancy over that from some clubs.

placeholder image — Mark Catlin | JPIMedia

That’s a stance echoed by many players within the game, too, with questions over the logistics of testing and how safe a return can be.

Catlin still thinks there’s a host of variables to consider over the way forward as discussions continue to take place.

He added: ‘I think it’s people chewing the fat to a large degree.

‘It’s like when I look at (EFL chairman) Rick Parry’s 56 days to finish the season in an orderly fashion, I track back from the date. Then people starting taking their own logical views, but the virus at the moment is controlling the season.

‘Maybe October 1 has been mentioned at some point but that will move hopefully nearer, but potentially further in the distance.’