EFL Trophy final: Important Portsmouth update on ticket refunds, potential date and fan presence against Salford

Pompey celebrate their Checkatrade Trophy final in 2019. Picture: Joe Pepler

Pompey have asked officials to form a plan for fans to be refunded for their EFL Trophy final tickets.

But there remains hope the showpiece clash against Salford City could be played in front of spectators in the spring.

The Blues are still reigning champions of the EFL Trophy, having defeated Sunderland on penalties at a sold-out Wembley in March 2019.

Kenny Jackett's side are still awaiting a date when they will return to the national stadium to defend their crown.

They were due to face League Two Salford on April 1 but the game was postponed amid the coronavirus crisis.

More than 51,000 members of the Fratton faithful have purchased tickets, with many expressing they want a refund in October.

Addressing the Tony Goodhall Fans' Conference, Mark Catlin told those who attended that Pompey have requested for supporters to be repaid by Christmas but it’s unlikely.

However, with a limited number of spectators now allowed in stadia, coupled with a Covid-19 vaccine being rolled out, fans could be present for when final may go ahead next year.

According to released minutes from the Tony Goodall Fans Conference from Tuesday, December 8, Catlin said: ‘The club is waiting to hear back from the EFL.

‘The club has informed them that fans would like a refund and asked for a plan. The club was hopeful of refunds for fans in time for Christmas but this now looks unlikely.

‘There remains some hope that the game could be played in front of fans in the Spring.’