Premier League might force clubs to play despite instances of COVID-19 outbreak: Report

Football has emerged as one of worst affected sports amid coronavirus pandemic that has gripped entire world for past six months. spread of COVID-19 in UK saw suspension of league competitions for over three months, furr hampering  schedule of several or competitions. However, with new Premier League season set to kick off over weekend, government authorities have warned against any furr postponement of fixtures.

Also Read | Real Madrid rejected a Premier League club's €100m bid to sign Bale last summer

furr fixture postponement despite COVID-19 in UK

Premier League has warned clubs that re shall be furr postponement of fixtures in upcoming season, despite instances of COVID-19 outbreaks in some squads. rationale behind this decision is to avoid any furr delay in an already delayed league campaign. Premier League has informed clubs that unless a team has only 14 players available for fixture, requests for fixture postponement will be entertained.

According to a report by Daily Mail, Premier League has also made it clear that any player who has played at least one minute in competition will be included as an option for first-team squad in event of any unavailability due to COVID-19. clubs are also expected to tap into ir U21 resources to fulfil any holes in squad.

Also Read | Premier League ends mega million contract with Chinese broadcasters PPTV

Premier League COVID cases estimated at 14, set to increase 

Premier League is yet to release results of pre-season testing with fears of a major outbreak as players returned to training after short trips abroad or due to ir participation in UEFA Nations League. At present, 14 players from 12 clubs have contracted COVID-19 in UK.

Although a rise in such numbers could have mandated a postponement of competition,  Premier League has set a very high bar this time around. Premier League will provide relaxation whatsoever if players are found to have breached individual coronavirus protocols or are forced into mandatory self-isolation.

Also Read | Gareth Bale reveals interest in Premier League return to end Real Madrid nightmare

Arsenal to play Fulham on opening day

Premier League has mandated that 2020-21 season should be completed within stipulated time without any furr delay. competition kicks off on September 12, with Community Shield winners Arsenal set to take on Fulham in opening game as Premier League football returns to Craven Cott.

Also Read | Black Lives Matter support comes to an end with Premier League clubs set to ditch badges

Im courtesy: Liverpool Twitter