SHEFFIELD boss Simon Stead is keeping his fingers crossed every 2020 rider is available for next year.

Rumours are already doing the rounds about some restrictions for riders on what leagues they can race in when they sign a contract in Poland.

Stead admits planning for 2021 cannot take place with any confidence right now and it could be January before decisions are made.

Club bosses will also need to keep a close eye on football and when crowds can return to elite sport, which is what Premiership and Championship speedway is classed as.

Said Stead: “I’d love to think most of our team for 2020 will be available for next year.

“At this stage that’s all we can say really. There are still a lot of unknowns regarding 2021 and if we start in April it’s still five months away and who knows where the world will be.

“We had so much anticipation for 2020 and it was a massive disappointment when we lost the entire league season. I was gutted but I’m over it now, we know a lot more about the virus and I’m hopeful we’ll have some good news in the not too distant future.

“The work which went into signing the likes of Nicki Pedersen and Jack Holder was immense and the boys were buzzing about riding for us. I’m hoping that still remains in place for 2021.”

Promoters are understood to be planning a start over Easter next season in line with Rugby League below Super League level – but it will all depend on when crowds can return to football.