MALVERN Town chairman Chris Pinder says he feels “lucky” to have football returning next week.

Town face Atherstone Town next Saturday in their FA Vase second-round tie, looking to avenge the defeat inflicted on them by the same opposition last season.

The game will be played behind closed doors due to Atherstone being in a tier three area but Pinder is just grateful for the game to be back and insists everyone needs to “break the monotony of life" following weeks of lockdown in the country.

“I feel really lucky to be in tier two,” he said.

“Getting the playing group back together for training will be great for them on so many levels.

“Being able to watch a competitive game will be hugely appreciated by fans also.

“We all need to break the monotony of life right now.

“I just really hope spectators will be sensible regarding social distancing and we can avoid football getting the blame for any covid outbreaks.”

Malvern have had a stunning start to their Hellenic League Division One West and sit top of the table after winning nine of their opening ten league matches.

Town are scheduled for a return to league football on Saturday December 12 away at Hereford Pegasus after a Worcester Senior Cup fixture with Worcester Raiders mid-week on Tuesday 8.