Liverpool set to be crowned Premier League champions as UEFA removes 'null and void' option

UEFA on Thursday decided that 2019/20 campaigns would be settled on ‘sporting merit’ given the leagues can’t be finished on time. UEFA’s decision of deciding Champions League and Europa League spots on ‘sporting merit’ means the final standings could be determined by the results thus far.

Hence, Liverpool, who are currently, 25 points clear in the Premier League standings, could be crowned champions even if league matches can’t be played in near future.

UEFA wants every major league to finish their respective campaigns but is clear that it may not be possible if governments place an official order to prohibit sporting events and gatherings.

The European sporting body has taken ‘null and void’ option off the table as final standings must be “based on sporting merit in the 2019/20 domestic competitions”.

UEFA has a plan-B in place which states that the sporting body prefers leagues to complete the season with a different format suggesting a play-off system to determine promotion and relegation candidates, and teams for European competitions.

Here’s the Premier League table on “sporting merit” for the season 2019/20:

1. Liverpool - 2.83 points per game

2. Manchester City - 2.04

3. Leicester City - 1.83

4. Chelsea - 1.66

5. Manchester United - 1.55

6. Sheffield United - 1.54

7. Wolverhampton Wanderers - 1.48

8. Arsenal - 1.43

9. Spurs - 1.41

10. Burnley - 1.34

11. Crystal Palace - 1.34

12. Everton - 1.28

13. Newcastle United - 1.21

14. Southampton - 1.17

15. Brighton - 1.00

16. West Ham United - 0.93

17. Watford - 0.93

18. Bournemouth - 0.93

19. Aston Villa - 0.89

20. Norwich City - 0.72