The Premier League have now issued a statement following a meeting today between its Shareholders.
As expected, the discussion centred around potential solutions for the 2019/20 Premier League season, and it seems PL chiefs are reiterating their desire to finish the current campaign – but only when it’s safe and appropriate to do so.
Here’s their statement in full:
“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.
“The clubs reconfirmed their commitment to finishing the 2019/20 season, maintaining integrity of the competition and welcomed the Government’s support.”
Elsewhere, the Premier League have also confirmed that the Academy season has been ended with immediate effect – meaning there’ll be no more fixtures for our U-18’s or U-23’s.
“Premier League Shareholders today unanimously agreed to curtail the 2019/20 Academy Games Programme.
“This decision, which is independent of any discussions regarding the resumption of the 2019/20 campaign for first-team football, has been taken to give Academy staff and their players clarity at this challenging time.
“The curtailment will include all Under-9 to Under-16 games as well as the Under-18 and Under-23 competitions.
“The methodology for determining the final league standings and outcomes for the season will be decided at a future date.
“Additionally, it is intended that any fixtures for the 2020/21 Academy season will not commence any earlier than would usually be expected.
“The decision has been made with the support of the EFL, which oversees the programme for Category Three and Category Four Clubs (Under-9 to Under-18).”
