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Billy Dodds says fan limits could impact Inverness Caledonian Thistle's transfer plans as lower matchday income hits revenue


By Andrew Henderson

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Billy Dodds has admitted the recent restrictions on the number of fans allowed in stadia will not have helped Inverness Caledonian Thistle’s transfer plans.

So far in the January window there have only been outgoings from the Caledonian Stadium, with Michael Gardyne and Anthony McDonald each leaving the club.

Since Boxing Day, clubs have been limited to a maximum of 500 supporters at matches, impacting on match day revenue and income hospitality.

Billy Dodds says the fan limit could have an impact on ICT's transfer business this month – but he hopes that it will not impact them in the Championship title race. Picture: Ken Macpherson
Billy Dodds says the fan limit could have an impact on ICT's transfer business this month – but he hopes that it will not impact them in the Championship title race. Picture: Ken Macpherson

So while Dodds says he is still looking to make additions to his squad this month, the recent restrictions have hardly boosted the club’s coffers.

“It doesn’t help – we don’t have an abundance of cash and we could be doing with getting crowds in,” Dodds explained.

“The chairman has been brilliant but it might make the difference to bringing someone in.

“We have funds to get people in but without crowds it puts pressure on the club.

“We need to have fans because it brings revenue and that might be the difference between getting a player or not. It’s not easy in finance and the pressure on the club to sign two or three players. We have to spend it wisely.

“Could it be the difference between us winning the title? I still think we have a really good squad but it could be the difference.

“I believe in the boys though, we are still competitive when we have the full squad available and we will give anyone a game.”

Although some Championship clubs have campaigned to get fans back in grounds earlier than the stated date of next Monday, Dodds was not optimistic about that likelihood.

“I would love it, but do I think it will happen? Probably not,” he reasoned.

“I feel for Championship clubs because we all need revenue in, but that’s the way it is. I don’t think it will happen, but I would love it to happen.”


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