Premier League officials privately admit there is very little chance of football resuming in April. The suspension was announced on Friday.
Following the coronavirus breakout in Europe, football all over the continent have been suspended. It was only a matter of time before the Premier League would do the same. The league however, insisted last night, that the weekend’s fixtures would go on as planned. The announcement of Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta’s diagnosis with the Pandemic bought about the turn though.
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The Premier League have since confirmed that all football has been suspended until April 3rd, following which, they plan to resume the competition.
“Following a meeting of Shareholders today, it was unanimously decided to suspend the Premier League with the intention of returning on 4 April, subject to medical advice and conditions at the time,” They said in a statement.
“In this unprecedented situation, we are working closely with our clubs, Government, The FA and EFL and can reassure everyone the health and welfare of players, staff and supporters are our priority,” Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters added.
“Despite the challenges, it is the Premier League’s aim is to reschedule the displaced fixtures, including those played by Academy sides, when it is safe to do so.”
However, according to BBC sports editor, Dan Roan, the suspension could last longer than the date given by the Premier League.
Premier League officials privately admit there is very little chance of football resuming in April
Roan has taken to Twitter to inform that the officials have privately admitted that there is “no chance” of the calendar resuming in three weeks’ time and that the hiatus will be extended.
Privately, officials admit very little chance of football resuming as early as Apr 4th so further extension then seems almost certain, unless season is abandoned, but review looks set to happen then if Prem League agree with EFL
— Dan Roan (@danroan) March 13, 2020
With the Euro’s set to take place in a few months time will put a lot of pressure on the league to finish their fixtures in time. The European competition could also be held back by a year; or if it comes to it, the season in itself could be called off.
However, the ramifications of doing so would be massive. Not only will Liverpool feel cheated off the title but sides like Sheffield United and Wolves, who are still realistically looking at a possible champions league spot will feel hard done by. Then there is also the issue of promotion and relegation.
In short, the cancellation of the league is likely to leave more people upset than pleased; and that is not even taking into consideration the financial aspect of the game. At this point however, there is no option but to sit and wait until we have more clarity regarding the situation.
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