Premier League clubs fear hopes of completing season are disappearing after latest meeting

Posted Saturday, April 18, 2020 by Express.co.uk

Premier League clubs fear hopes of completing season are disappearing after latest meeting
Premier League clubs have doubts over whether the season will be finished (Image: GETTY)

Premier League clubs have doubts over whether the season will be finished.

Premier League clubs fear hopes of this season finishing are disappearing. Football has been suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic. Top flight clubs met on Friday via a video conference call to discuss when the Premier League season could be finished.

However, the decision has been made to revisit the topic in three weeks, which falls in line with Government advice.

It was confirmed on Thursday evening that the lockdown has been extended due to fears over the coronavirus pandemic.

And according to the Mirror, Premier League clubs fear the season may not be finished.

Top flight teams feel they cannot put a financial plan in place with the uncertainty over when football could return.

There are also worries over players who are out of contract on June 30.

Clubs feel they haven't been given the time to plan for players staying past their contracts.

FIFA are happy for deals to be extended in the Premier League, however, it cannot be enforced.

It's also claimed Premier League sides fear they're racking up major debts without games taking place.

That has left clubs desperate for games to be played behind closed doors if the season returns so they can pocket broadcast money.

Sky's payment to Premier League sides would be a mammoth £762million.

The Premier League campaign could return in June after players are given time for a short pre-season.

However, if the lockdown is extended, the season will be thrown into doubt once again.

A Premier League spokesperson said: "We are acutely aware of the distress COVID-19 is causing and our thoughts are with all those directly affected by the pandemic.

"In common with other businesses and industries, the Premier League and our clubs are working through complex planning scenarios. We are actively engaging with stakeholders, including broadcast partners, and our aim is to ensure we are in a position to resume playing when it is safe to do so and with the full support of the Government. The health and wellbeing of players, coaches, managers, club staff and supporters are our priority and the League will only restart when medical guidance allows.

"Today’s Shareholders’ Meeting provided an opportunity to discuss possible scheduling models. It remains our objective to complete the 2019/20 season but at this stage all dates are tentative while the impact of COVID-19 develops.

"In response to the pandemic, the Premier League, our clubs and players have provided vital support for communities and the NHS and will continue to do so after matches recommence."