LEIGH Centurions boss John Duffy believes rugby league will kick-off behind closed doors when the sport finally emerges from lockdown, writes Trevor Baxter.

But Centurions’ head coach would urge caution on any plans to make up for lost time by playing three times a week.

A number of Super League clubs are against resuming in front of empty stadia because of the implications of losing matchday revenue.

Duffy can’t wait to see the North Stand packed again and Leigh re-starting their Betfred Championship campaign.

However, he admits: “As soon as we get the green light to train we will probably play behind closed doors.

“That’s my thoughts and I think the players will want to do that as well. They will just want to get out and play.

“We have got to be cautious that when they take us away from lockdown they do it gradually.

“However, the sooner we can get back playing first and then get the fans back the better for me.”

Duffy says his squad remains in good spirits.

“I know the lads have been conscious of looking after each other,” he said.

“That’s great to see. They have had their own quizzes on Zoom and their own chats.

“Every player is in a different scenario at home. Some have got kids, some haven’t, some have got girlfriends, some haven’t. But they are all fine at the minute though I just hope it doesn’t go on too long.”

While the NRL in Australia has set a date of May 28 to re-start its season, the UK game will remain mothballed for longer.

Despite no guidance yet on what a revamped season might look like, there have been suggestions of a hectic fixture schedule when games recommence.

“We have got to do it the smartest way possible,” says Duffy. “However, I hope they wouldn’t play every three days.

“Do a week of games maybe and then do a full week’s rest.

“Player welfare has gone through the roof in recent years which it should do. I am sure the RFL will look after the players with the way we structure everything.

“It is a different ball game now to when I first started and later in my career with mental well-being and player welfare through the likes of RL Cares and State of Mind.

“So, you have got to take everything into contention when you are planning through these tough times.

“But the longer it takes to re-start the season the more matches we could be asked to play in a week.”

Duffy has been keeping himself busy during lockdown by brushing up his culinary techniques.

“I am doing very well and tried making a few different dishes,” he laughed.

“I am watching Gordon Ramsey quite a bit and Jamie Oliver doing his daily meals. The kids are not too keen but I am quite impressed.”