Premier League coronavirus comeback could be thwarted by players

Posted Saturday, March 28, 2020 by Dailystar.co.uk

The Premier League and EFL will not return until April 30 at the earliest amid the coronavirus pandemic though that date is expected to be pushed back

The return of professional football in England could reportedly be thwarted due to the players.

There will be no football before April 30 at the earliest amid the coronavirus pandemic with many expecting that date to be pushed further back.

The Premier League, English Football League and Professional Footballers’ Association held a conference call on Friday with a statement saying the league will only commence “when it is safe and conditions allow”.

However the Guardian claim that players could refuse to compete because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

It’s reported that players are concerned about putting their health, and their families’ health, at risk by returning to work while the crisis continues.

Premier League coronavirus comeback could be thwarted by players
The Premier League will not be played before April 30

The Guardian add that players’ representatives are understood to be exploring whether insurance policies could be declared null and void should football stars contract a potentially career-threatening illness after playing again while being aware of the risks involved.

A joint statement released on Friday read: “The Premier League, EFL and PFA met today and discussed the growing seriousness of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Premier League coronavirus comeback could be thwarted by players
EFL clubs are in limbo over what the future holds

"It was stressed that the thoughts of all three organisations continue to be with everyone affected by the virus.

"The Premier League, EFL and PFA agreed that difficult decisions will have to be taken in order to mitigate the economic impact of the current suspension of professional football in England and agreed to work together to arrive at shared solutions.

"The leagues will not recommence until 30 April at the earliest.

"They will only do so when it is safe and conditions allow. Further meetings will take place next week with a view to formulating a joint plan to deal with the difficult circumstances facing the leagues, their clubs, players, staff and fans.”

Steps 3-7 of the non-league pyramid have seen their seasons ended and declared null and void, though a decision for the National League is still to be made.