Premier League suspended indefinitely during COVID-19 pandemic

Premier League was suspended indefinitely Friday following a meeting of 20 soccer clubs where a series of financial measures were discussed amid coronavirus pandemic.

English league had given a tentative return date of April 30 but that was pushed back with a statement saying “2019-20 season will only return when it is safe and appropriate to do so” and only with full support of government and medical guidance.

“re is a combined objective for all remaining domestic league and cup matches to be played,” league said, “enabling us to maintain integrity of each competition.”

Teams still have nine or 10 games left to play, with Liverpool — leader by 25 points — still needing two more wins to clinch its first title since 1990.

UEFA, in a letter signed by European Clubs’ Association and European Leagues, has urged members t to abandon ir competitions. Halting leagues without approval from UEFA could see teams blocked from qualifying for Champions League and Europa League as y are determined based on final positions in domestic standings.

In a statement released after 20 teams met by video conference, league said it voted to advance funds of 125 million pounds ($150 million) to clubs in English Football League and fifth-tier National League, many of which are struggling to cope with financial consequences of suspension of matches.

It also committed 20 million pounds ($24 million) to Britain’s National Health Service.

At end of a week when Premier League players came under growing public pressure to forego some of ir salaries to help pay club staff, league said clubs had agreed to consult players over a w deduction or deferral of 30% “in face of substantial and continuing losses.”

“ league will be in regular contact with Professional Footballers’ Association,” read statement, “and union will join a meeting which will be held tomorrow between league, players and club representatives.”

(im credit: AP)