The FAI have welcomed a UEFA announcement which will allow some fans return to matches. 

European football's governing body confirmed on Thursday that next week's international matches will see stadiums allowed to operate at 30 per cent capacity, subject to local laws.

It follows a successful pilot event in the UEFA Super Cup meeting of Bayern Munich and Sevilla in Budapest where 22,000 fans were allowed to attend.

The FAI say they will discuss the development with the Government.

Outdoor sporting events are capped at 200 attendees currently. And with cases on the rise in the Republic, that limit is unlikely to be limited in the near future.

The Slovakian government have already decreed that no supporters will be allowed inside national stadium in Bratislava for the Euro 2020 playoff with the Republic of Ireland.

As things stand, Sunday-week's Nations League game at home to Wales will be played behind closed doors.

But the Finnish FA have indicated that they expect to have home supporters in Helsinki for the game on October 14.

Interim FAI CEO Gary Owens told said, “The FAI welcomes today’s announcement and looks forward to welcoming Ireland fans back to UEFA fixtures in the very near future.

“This is a major step forward for football and a timely boost for the Association. We are currently working with our colleagues in the IRFU and the GAA on a joint proposal to Government to facilitate the return of fans to all our games.

“This news tonight is another step in the right direction and we will look forward to outlining it to Government and examining what it means for Irish football.

“Any decision to allow fans back to UEFA fixtures featuring Irish international and club teams will of course be taken in conjunction with all Government agencies and with the safety of those supporters our prime concern.”