Premier League clubs are still committed to finishing the current season amid the coronavirus crisis with top-flight sides ‘united’ in their desire to complete the campaign.
It’s been well over a month since a ball was last kicked in England’s top tier as the world tries to get to grips with the ongoing pandemic, and while the season will not resume until it is advised it is safe to do, all clubs having been represented during a video-call meeting on Friday to debate how the campaign can be concluded.
Sky Sports report that clubs were shown ‘different models’ of how the season could be completed over the summer months, though a proposal to finish the season by June 30 was not raised during the meeting, despite it being reported just yesterday that a growing number of clubs were concerned about the prospect of players contracts ending.
Meanwhile, the EFL have announced their plans to resume England’s lower divisions, with all Championship, League One and League Two fixtures to be played behind closed doors and broadcast either on television or online.
EFL chairman Rick Parry has written an open letter to fans confirming that no date can yet be set for a return to football amid the global pandemic, and that fixtures are almost certain to be played without spectators if the league are advised it is safe to resume.
Parry has, however, insisted that officials will do their utmost to broadcast all EFL games in the absence of fans, and has entered talks with broadcasters iFollow and club streaming services.
Speaking in the letter, Parry said: “To give you an honest assessment of the current situation; the point at which you will be able to attend games again remains unclear. Please be assured, however, that we are going to welcome you back to stadiums as soon as it is safe to do so. Your contribution to the matchday experience and atmospheres created in stadia up and down the country is something we should never take for granted. Unfortunately, I cannot tell you today when football will resume, though whenever we do return, matches are likely to be played without crowds.
“And whilst we are unfortunately without the presence of the hundreds of thousands of supporters who pass through EFL turnstiles each week, we will endeavour to bring live football direct into your homes once it returns. Plans are continuing to be worked up for all games to be broadcast either via our broadcast partners, iFollow or equivalent Club streaming services. We will update you on this once we know when matches will recommence.”
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