- Eye June 8, 2020 to resume hostilities
Despite dislocation caused by the coronavirus global shutdown, the English top flight is setting its eyes on returning to the pitch to conclude the 2019-2020 season in a flourish.
But the football authorities confirmed that they will not be taking any steps without government approval
Following a meeting on Friday, the Premier League said though completing the 2019-20 season, suspended since March due to the coronavirus pandemic, is the priority for now, government input will not be ignored in any circumstances
The league’s clubs, which met to discuss steps forward, said no concrete decisions have made as they await government’s decision on the lockdown going forward.
“At a meeting of Premier League Shareholders today, clubs discussed possible steps towards planning to resume the 2019-20 season, when it is safe and appropriate to do so,” a statement said.
“It was reiterated that the thoughts of all are with those directly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Furthermore, the Premier League’s priority is the health and safety of players, coaches, managers, club staff, supporters and the wider community.
“The League and clubs are considering the first tentative moves forward and will only return to training and playing with Government guidance, under expert medical advice and after consultation with players and managers.
“The League welcomed the creation of the Government medical working group for a return of elite sport, which met for the first time this morning.
“No decisions were taken at today’s Shareholders’ meeting and clubs exchanged views on the information provided regarding ‘Project Restart’.
“It was agreed that the PFA, LMA, players and managers are key to this process and will be further consulted.
“The clubs reconfirmed their commitment to finishing the 2019-20 season, maintaining integrity of the competition and welcomed the Government’s support.”
On Thursday, April 30, 2020, the Premier League’s guidelines for “Project Restart” were revealed, with the league targeting a potential June 8 return.
Among the guidelines to follow are that players will be required to wear face masks at training grounds and all equipment, including footballs, will be disinfected before and after use.
Following the recent cancellation of top-flight seasons in France and the Netherlands, there has been increased speculations that the Premier League could be forced to do the same.
Also, Manchester United great, Gary Neville, had called out the Premier League earlier in the week, saying that the League’s attempts to return to the field amid the COVID-19 concerns were prioritising money over player safety.
In the meantime, the English Football League has confirmed that the Academy Games Programme for the 2019-20 season has been terminated forthwith. – Goal.com
