HAMPDEN faces being AXED as a Euro 2020 host stadium.
Unless the Scottish Government allow fans back into grounds, UEFA could withdraw Scotland’s national stadium as a venue for the competition.
Steve Clarke’s side are due to kick-off their first major international tournament in 23 years when they take on the Czech Republic on Monday, June 14 and they are scheduled to return to the ground for the match against Croatia on Tuesday the following week.
In between, there is a meeting with England at Wembley on Friday, June 18.
It is understood First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has only weeks left to give guarantees to UEFA bosses over the issue.
However, the Holyrood leader has been urged by virus expert Professor Hugh Pennington to give the Tartan Army a boost.
The Aberdeen Uni academic, speaking in the Scottish Sun, said: “I’m surprised they’re being so cautious. All figures are going in the right direction for Scotland.
“If I was advising them, I’d say go ahead and confirm it. The chance of getting infected with limited fans inside the ground and safety measures being followed are very low indeed.”
Scotland’s status as a host nation could be surrendered if Ms Sturgeon does not offer assurances to Europe’s ruling football body by April 7.
UEFA have ordered all 12 host cities to submit their plans, including for crowds, by next month.
Attendance restrictions in the 51,866-capacity Hampden could mean crowds of only 5,000 to 10,000 being allowed to attend.
The UK Government has said 10,000 supporters will be allowed in English grounds from April.
The SFA said: “We will continue our discussions with UEFA and the Scottish Government to ensure as many fans as possible can enjoy the four matches at Hampden.”
As well as the Scots’ ties in Glasgow, Croatia will play the Czech Republic on June 18 with a 5pm kick-off and there is a Round of 16 match due on June 29 with an 8pm start.
