The Premier League will return on June 12 with games to be
played behind closed doors at neutral grounds, if the Government gives the
green light amid the Coronavirus pandemic.
On Friday, a video conference meeting was held between the
20 “shareholder” Premier League clubs and they discussed the rules and
regulations upon the return for training, as well as matches being played
behind closed doors due to the global crisis.
According to The Sun, It was agreed at the meeting that
matches will be held on neutral grounds away from congested urban areas as part
of the league's 'Project Restart' plan to resume playing.
West Ham’s London Stadium including Arsenal’s Emirates and
the Etihad home of Manchester City are likely going to be the final venues
where the games will be played. But no
club will be allowed to play in their own home ground.
Premier League clubs are already planning to start some form
of formal training from May 18, with a target for the return of games to resume
the season on June 12.
The clubs agreed to meet again next Friday, and present the
plan to the government for approval.
Read the full
statement below.
A league statement said: '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.
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.'
