Prime Minister Boris Johnson has confirmed that capacity crowds are set to return to sport events in England from 19 July without restrictions.

Earlier this evening, the PM announced the plan to end all COVID-19 lockdown restrictions.

It means there could be full stadiums for the start of the Premier League campaign for Newcastle United and the Championship season for Middlesbrough.

Sunderland and Hartlepool United open their League One and League campaigns on home soil respectively where they should be met by a full house.

The move, which will be voted upon on 12th July, would end social distancing and the mandatory use of face masks.

It represents good news for football clubs who have been without the income of gate receipts for over a year.

While Boro manager Neil Warnock is yet to manage a game in front of fans, Lee Johnson of Sunderland and Steve Bruce of Newcastle experienced fan atmosphere once before their seasons came to an end.

Dave Challinor managed to experience three Hartlepool games in front of reduced capacity crowds before the end of the season, one of which being their National League play-off final win against Torquay United at Ashton Gate.

While there is no legal requirement for vaccine passports at some events, clubs can choose to use the service if they wish.