NEIL WARNOCK admits the decision not to allow supporters into matches has radically affected his plans for the final two weeks of the transfer window – with Premier League loan additions now much more likely than permanent transfers.

Warnock had been hoping to make another three or four signings before the Championship transfer window closes on October 16, but while he continues to hold discussions about a couple of potential targets, his plans have changed.

The Government’s warning that the current behind-closed-doors rules are likely to remain in place for the next six months has forced clubs in all leagues to reassess their budget.

And given his reluctance to start asking Steve Gibson for money that is not there, Warnock will be focusing on potential Premier League loans once the transfer window for the top-flight closes next Monday.

The Middlesbrough manager said: “Everything will happen next week, won’t it really? The international window shuts next Monday on the fifth, but then you can still bring in loan players from Premier League clubs for another ten days after that.

“I think a lot of Championship clubs are waiting for that now because, quite simply, the money’s not there anymore. I don’t see the money being there, and I wouldn’t want to ask Steve for it at the moment.

“With the knockback with the fans, while I would love another three or four players, I don’t think you could do that now. Because of the financial situation, I think we’ve all got to realise what a difficult situation it is for owners and the club, none more so than Steve, who has supported this club through thick and thin.

“We’ve all got to play our part. Yes, I’d love three or four top players, but financially it doesn’t make sense now. We’ve just got to try to do what we can, and then try to persevere until January to see how the whole situation is around the country.”

Warnock is back in charge after his two-week period of isolation following his positive test for Covid, and will be in the technical area at the Riverside on Saturday when Boro host Barnsley.

Ashley Fletcher is due to return to full training later today so should be available to face the Tykes, but Grant Hall has been ruled out with the calf injury he sustained in last weekend’s draw at QPR.

“Grant won’t be available with his calf, but we don’t really know a time-frame because we’ve got two weeks after Saturday with the international break,” said Warnock. “We’ll know more when we’re back in after that break.”