The government says it is “opening the door” for the return of professional football in England in June. Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said Thursday’s meeting with the Football Association, Premier League and English Football League had “progressed plans”.
He added that plans for the sport to resume should “include widening access for fans to view live coverage”. Meanwhile, England’s deputy chief medical officer said any return would be “slow” and “measured”.
The Premier League met on Monday to discuss “Project Restart” and hopes for a return to action on 12 June, with matches played behind closed doors. “We all agreed that we will only go ahead if it is safe to do so and the health and welfare of players, coaches and staff comes first,” said Dowden.
“It is now up to the football authorities to agree and finalise the detail of their plans, and there is combined goodwill to achieve this for their fans, the football community and the nation as a whole. “The government and our medical experts will continue to offer guidance and support.” He added that plans to return should “ensure finances from the game’s resumption supports the wider football family”.
