Chris Beech believes the return of fans to Brunton Park can be a big plus for Carlisle United next season.

The head coach says the Blues faithful will put more pressure on opponents – and also hold his own players to account.

Most games have been held behind closed doors in 2020/21 but a return to crowds is anticipated in 2021/22.

Carlisle won four of their five home games to be played in front of limited attendances this campaign.

The 10th-placed Blues otherwise had to be supported via iFollow live-streaming and through other media coverage.

Beech said he can’t wait for a return to normality with people back on the terraces and in the stands.

Asked for an end-of-season message to those who have followed his team this term, he said: “Thanks for your patience, and for your support when you could get in – the chosen few that were allowed.

“I really look forward to seeing them helping us, putting pressure on opponents, and putting pressure on our own players to perform.

“I think it’s a game to be shared and have those goosebumps on the neck – feeling great when you’ve scored, or taken two or three players on and crossed the ball…

“It makes you run back in faster when you hear a roar and reaction to something. Whether it’s a positive or negative response, you’re gonna react. That’s just human nature.

“I’m looking forward to having everybody back. I thank them for the bits they’ve been able to watch.

“I do thank them for their patience because I watch a lot of EFL League Two games and they are difficult to watch on TV, they really are. It’s just the way it is.

“When the [supporters’] eyes are here, the players will probably be more thankful they can’t hear me and the supporters can see it for their own eyes and make their own opinions.”

Fans are set to return to grounds for the EFL play-offs which start next week.

It follows the government’s announcement that the country will move onto Step 3 on its Covid-19 “roadmap” from May 17.

The EFL said clubs will discuss the size of crowds they can have with their local safety advisory groups.

No away fans will be allowed at the play-off semi-finals, which in League Two start next Tuesday with Newport against Forest Green.

EFL chief executive, Trevor Birch said: “We are delighted to welcome back fans for the Sky Bet play-offs which will be fantastic for our competition and another significant step towards the EFL’s aspiration of having full stadia at the start of next season.

“Over the course of the past 12 months, our clubs have implemented stringent protocols and have worked tirelessly to overcome unprecedented challenges this campaign.

“Fans’ return at this climax of the season is just reward for semi-finalist clubs who will now use their significant expertise in crowd management to ensure supporters can enjoy a safe and enjoyable return to their much-loved home grounds.

“We are thankful to all those who have helped ensure fans will be able to support their clubs in important fixtures through the semi-finals and we look forward to welcoming fans in yet greater numbers at the play-off finals.”