Dan Mountney
Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium is among a list of neutral grounds that could be used as part of a proposed Premier League return on June 12 – if the Government green lights the plan.
The league’s 20 shareholder clubs discussed plans to recommence action in a more than three and a half hour meeting over the weekend, with the Premier League determined to finish the season following the coronavirus outbreak.
Clubs are hoping to begin formal training from May 18, with a June 12 return for games being targeted.
In line with police advice, neutral venues should, if possible, be away from congested urban areas, with the Emirates among those being considered.
No club will be allowed to play in their own home ground in a bid to equalise fixtures, while no date has been given for when supporters can return to watch game, although teams are reportedly starting to accept fans will be banned into next season.
That means the determination of some clubs to ensure ‘home advantage’ in their remaining matches has been sacrificed in light of the coronavirus crisis.
The Premier League’s plan to resume the season would need Government approval, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson signalling the national lockdown will only be eased in stages and not before next Thursday.
Clubs have agreed to meet again next Friday, 24 hours after the next lockdown announcement. The scheduled May 15 meeting has been put back to May 18, giving the clubs more time to assess the evolving situation.
