Manchester City's Kyle Walker says he is being "harassed" after admitting he breached coronavirus lockdown rules to visit his sister and parents.

The defender was forced to issue an apology last month after media reports that he had hosted a party at his home.

But Walker has hit back at the latest stories, insisting that he is being targeted and that the ongoing controversy is affecting his family's health.

In a statement on his official Twitter feed, Walker wrote: "I have recently gone through one of the toughest periods of my life, which I take full responsibility for.

"However, I now feel as though I am being harassed.

"This is no longer solely affecting me, but affecting the health of my family and my young children too."

Walker admitted contravening coronavirus regulations again by visiting Sheffield to see his sister and his parents -- for which he could be fined and cautioned by police.

"In relation to the events on Wednesday, I travelled to Sheffield to give my sister a birthday card and present, but also to speak to one of the few people I believe I can trust in my life," he said.

"She hugged me to remind me that she cares and that I am loved. What am I meant to do -- push her away?

"I then travelled to my parents' house to pick up some home-cooked meals. Again, it's been an extremely tough couple of months for them."

He criticised the media for invading the privacy of his family, saying he constantly felt he was being followed.

Aston Villa's Jack Grealish was forced to apologise in March after breaching lockdown rules, while Everton strongly criticised Moises Kean for hosting a party last month.

Walker said the response to his actions had been disproportionate, raising mental health concerns and saying his family had been "torn apart" by the continuing scrutiny.

Manchester City's Kyle Walker says he is being "harassed" after admitting he breached coronavirus lockdown rules to visit his sister and parents. The defender was forced to issue an apology last month after media reports that he had hosted a party at his home.

Manchester City's Kyle Walker says he is being "harassed" after admitting he breached coronavirus lockdown rules to visit his sister and parents. The defender was forced to issue an apology last month after media reports that he had hosted a party at his home. But Walker has hit back at the latest stories, insisting that he is being targeted and that the ongoing controversy is affecting his family's health. In a statement on his official Twitter feed, Walker wrote: "I have recently gone through one of the toughest periods of my life, which I take full responsibility for. "However, I now feel as though I am being harassed. "This is no longer solely affecting me, but affecting the health of my family and my young children too." Walker admitted contravening coronavirus regulations again by visiting Sheffield to see his sister and his parents -- for which he could be fined and cautioned by police. "In relation to the events on Wednesday, I travelled to Sheffield to give my sister a birthday card and present, but also to speak to one of the few people I believe I can trust in my life," he said. "She hugged me to remind me that she cares and that I am loved. What am I meant to do -- push her away? "I then travelled to my parents' house to pick up some home-cooked meals. Again, it's been an extremely tough couple of months for them." He criticised the media for invading the privacy of his family, saying he constantly felt he was being followed. Aston Villa's Jack Grealish was forced to apologise in March after breaching lockdown rules, while Everton strongly criticised Moises Kean for hosting a party last month. Walker said the response to his actions had been disproportionate, raising mental health concerns and saying his family had been "torn apart" by the continuing scrutiny.

Man City's Walker says he is being 'harassed' after admitting lockdown breaches

Britain's Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden warned on Friday that the Premier League does not yet have the "green light" to resume but restated the government's hope that the season can be completed.

Premier League clubs are due to meet on Monday to discuss the latest plans for "Project Restart" -- a day after an expected minor easing of coronavirus lockdown measures.

Clubs are understood to have been told that the use of a limited number of neutral venues is the only way to complete the campaign, to limit the strain on essential services and discourage gatherings of supporters near stadiums.

But those at risk of relegation argue that the integrity of the competition would be compromised by the neutral-venue plan.

Brighton chief executive Paul Barber is opposed to the idea, with the Seagulls hovering two points above the drop zone. Brighton were scheduled to play five of their remaining nine games at home.

Despite extensive contingency planning, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Oliver Dowden warned the Premier League was yet to get the go-ahead, with testing and player welfare major hurdles.

"They've not been given the green light," Dowden told BBC Radio on Friday.

"If we can get a plan that works then I'd like us to be able to go ahead with it because I think it would be good for the nation, it would be good for football as a whole.

"I'm really hopeful we can get this up and running but public safety must come first so it's only if we're confident of that, we'll be able to proceed."

In Germany, the Bundesliga announced this week that it would resume matches on May 16, behind closed doors and subject to extensive coronavirus testing.

Dowden's comments came as The Times newspaper reported that Football Association chiefs would block any attempt to declare the Premier League season null and void and abandon relegation.

<h2>- Relegation scrapped? -</h2>

At least one club reportedly wants relegation to be scrapped if neutral grounds are used.

But The Times said it was understood that the FA board supported the Premier League board's position that the league table should be decided on sporting merit even if it were cut short.

Former Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand said there was no viable resolution that would satisfy all 20 clubs.

"People are going to feel at a disadvantage if certain decisions are made but I don't think the Premier League can have a wholehearted 100 percent win on this no matter what decision they make, which is unfortunate," he told the Press Association.

Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero and Brighton's Glenn Murray have raised objections from a safety point of view but Ferdinand said they should put their faith in the authorities.

"The Premier League, the FA and the government, if all of those three bodies give it the green light then I'm sure the players' protection, health and well-being will be at the top of their agenda to make sure they remain healthy and not at risk," he said.

Britain's Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden warned on Friday that the Premier League does not yet have the "green light" to resume but restated the government's hope that the season can be completed.

Britain's Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden warned on Friday that the Premier League does not yet have the "green light" to resume but restated the government's hope that the season can be completed. Premier League clubs are due to meet on Monday to discuss the latest plans for "Project Restart" -- a day after an expected minor easing of coronavirus lockdown measures. Clubs are understood to have been told that the use of a limited number of neutral venues is the only way to complete the campaign, to limit the strain on essential services and discourage gatherings of supporters near stadiums. But those at risk of relegation argue that the integrity of the competition would be compromised by the neutral-venue plan. Brighton chief executive Paul Barber is opposed to the idea, with the Seagulls hovering two points above the drop zone. Brighton were scheduled to play five of their remaining nine games at home. Despite extensive contingency planning, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Oliver Dowden warned the Premier League was yet to get the go-ahead, with testing and player welfare major hurdles. "They've not been given the green light," Dowden told BBC Radio on Friday. "If we can get a plan that works then I'd like us to be able to go ahead with it because I think it would be good for the nation, it would be good for football as a whole. "I'm really hopeful we can get this up and running but public safety must come first so it's only if we're confident of that, we'll be able to proceed." In Germany, the Bundesliga announced this week that it would resume matches on May 16, behind closed doors and subject to extensive coronavirus testing. Dowden's comments came as The Times newspaper reported that Football Association chiefs would block any attempt to declare the Premier League season null and void and abandon relegation. - Relegation scrapped? - At least one club reportedly wants relegation to be scrapped if neutral grounds are used. But The Times said it was understood that the FA board supported the Premier League board's position that the league table should be decided on sporting merit even if it were cut short. Former Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand said there was no viable resolution that would satisfy all 20 clubs. "People are going to feel at a disadvantage if certain decisions are made but I don't think the Premier League can have a wholehearted 100 percent win on this no matter what decision they make, which is unfortunate," he told the Press Association. Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero and Brighton's Glenn Murray have raised objections from a safety point of view but Ferdinand said they should put their faith in the authorities. "The Premier League, the FA and the government, if all of those three bodies give it the green light then I'm sure the players' protection, health and well-being will be at the top of their agenda to make sure they remain healthy and not at risk," he said.

Premier League does not yet have 'green light', minister warns

With the Angela Merkel-led German government giving clearance to the resumption of football season, the Bundesliga is gearing up for a return on May 16. The Bundesliga will resume services from matchday 26 with some exciting fixtures ready to enthral football lovers who have been missing the beautiful game amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Bundesliga will be kicking off with one of the best derbies in the world – The Ruhr Valley Derby – played between Borussia Dortmund and FC Schalke 04. Dortmund (51) are currently placed second in the points table four points behind leaders Bayern Munich (55) and would be hoping to defeat their arch-rivals and sixth-placed Schalke (37) in the opening clash of the matchday 26.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-jofra-archer-to-james-maddison-epremier-league-2-kicks-off-with-enthralling-action-on-fifa-20-297400" hreflang="en">From Jofra Archer to James Maddison: ePremier League 2 kicks off with enthralling action on FIFA 20</a>

Red Bull Leipzig will take on Freiburg whereas Hoffenheim will lock horns with Hertha Berlin. Dusseldorf will face Paderborn and Augsburg will meet Wolfsburg whereas Frankfurt will take on Borussia Monchengladbach in what promises to be another exciting match-up.

On May 17, FC Koln will face Mainz whereas 11th placed Union Berlin will meet defending champions and current leaders Bayern Munich. Matchday 26 will end with Bremen locking horns with Bayern Leverkusen on May 18.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spurs-hotshot-son-heung-min-earns-military-accolade-297377" hreflang="en">Spurs hotshot Son Heung-min earns military accolade</a>

<h2>Bundesliga – Matchday 26 - Complete Fixture</h2>

May 16

Dortmund vs Schalke

RB Leipzig vs Freiburg

Hoffenheim vs Hertha Berlin

Dusseldorf vs Paderborn

Augsburg vs Wolfsburg

Frankfurt vs Monchengladbach

May 17

FC Koln vs Mainz

Union Berlin vs Bayern Munich

May 18

Werder Bremen vs Bayern Leverkusen 
&nbsp;

With the Angela Merkel-led German government giving clearance to the resumption of football season, the Bundesliga is gearing up for a return on May 16. The Bundesliga will resume services from matchday 26 with some exciting fixtures ready to enthral football lovers who have been missing the beautiful game amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the Angela Merkel-led German government giving clearance to the resumption of football season, the Bundesliga is gearing up for a return on May 16. The Bundesliga will resume services from matchday 26 with some exciting fixtures ready to enthral football lovers who have been missing the beautiful game amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Bundesliga will be kicking off with one of the best derbies in the world – The Ruhr Valley Derby – played between Borussia Dortmund and FC Schalke 04. Dortmund (51) are currently placed second in the points table four points behind leaders Bayern Munich (55) and would be hoping to defeat their arch-rivals and sixth-placed Schalke (37) in the opening clash of the matchday 26. ALSO READ: From Jofra Archer to James Maddison: ePremier League 2 kicks off with enthralling action on FIFA 20 Red Bull Leipzig will take on Freiburg whereas Hoffenheim will lock horns with Hertha Berlin. Dusseldorf will face Paderborn and Augsburg will meet Wolfsburg whereas Frankfurt will take on Borussia Monchengladbach in what promises to be another exciting match-up. On May 17, FC Koln will face Mainz whereas 11th placed Union Berlin will meet defending champions and current leaders Bayern Munich. Matchday 26 will end with Bremen locking horns with Bayern Leverkusen on May 18. ALSO READ: Spurs hotshot Son Heung-min earns military accolade Bundesliga – Matchday 26 - Complete Fixture May 16 Dortmund vs Schalke RB Leipzig vs Freiburg Hoffenheim vs Hertha Berlin Dusseldorf vs Paderborn Augsburg vs Wolfsburg Frankfurt vs Monchengladbach May 17 FC Koln vs Mainz Union Berlin vs Bayern Munich May 18 Werder Bremen vs Bayern Leverkusen

Ruhr Derby to kick-start Bundesliga resumption - Here's complete matchday 26 fixture list

The first edition of the ePremier League was won by Wolves forward Diogo Jota after defeating Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold in extra-time. But the second edition of ePremier League, which kicked off on May 5 has lot more surprises for the lovers of football and highly-popular video game FIFA 20. 
While the first edition of ePremier League featured only players from different Premier League clubs, the second edition of the E-Sports league is featuring some of the biggest celebrities in England from both football and cricket fraternity.&nbsp;

The second edition of ePremier League features Ryan Sessegnon from Tottenham Hostpur, Phil Foden from Manchester City and James Maddison from Leicester City while boasting a high-profile list of gamer Spencer Owen, representing West Ham, Top Boy actor Michael Ward, representing Arsenal, and English cricketer and World Cup winner Jofra Archer, representing Manchester United.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spurs-hotshot-son-heung-min-earns-military-accolade-297377" hreflang="en">Spurs hotshot Son Heung-min earns military accolade</a>

Archer failed to defeat Newcastle United’s Rolando Aarons after suffering a 4-1 defeat whereas Arsenal’s Ward was hammered by Burnley defender Charlie Taylor 1-2.

Liverpool defender Jose Enrique was knocked out of the tournament after being defeated by Aston Villa’s Keinan Davis &nbsp;6-1 whereas Michael Obafemi from Southampton thrashed professional boxer Tony Bellew, representing Everton, 7-0.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-bundesliga-to-resume-on-may-16-final-game-week-to-be-played-on-june-2728-297234" hreflang="en">Official: Bundesliga to resume on May 16; final game-week to be played on June 27/28</a>

Archer, who showed some great skills with his joystick, had to bow out of the tournament after a brilliant encounter against Sheffield United defender Josh Eagan with the match ending 4-3 in favour of the latter.&nbsp;

With the second edition of ePremier League entering its penultimate stage, more exciting action and nail-biting encounters await the football lovers.&nbsp;

The first edition of the ePremier League was won by Wolves forward Diogo Jota after defeating Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold in extra-time. But the second edition of ePremier League, which kicked off on May 5 has lot more surprises for the lovers of football and highly-popular video game FIFA 20.

The first edition of the ePremier League was won by Wolves forward Diogo Jota after defeating Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold in extra-time. But the second edition of ePremier League, which kicked off on May 5 has lot more surprises for the lovers of football and highly-popular video game FIFA 20. While the first edition of ePremier League featured only players from different Premier League clubs, the second edition of the E-Sports league is featuring some of the biggest celebrities in England from both football and cricket fraternity. The second edition of ePremier League features Ryan Sessegnon from Tottenham Hostpur, Phil Foden from Manchester City and James Maddison from Leicester City while boasting a high-profile list of gamer Spencer Owen, representing West Ham, Top Boy actor Michael Ward, representing Arsenal, and English cricketer and World Cup winner Jofra Archer, representing Manchester United. ALSO READ: Spurs hotshot Son Heung-min earns military accolade Archer failed to defeat Newcastle United’s Rolando Aarons after suffering a 4-1 defeat whereas Arsenal’s Ward was hammered by Burnley defender Charlie Taylor 1-2. Liverpool defender Jose Enrique was knocked out of the tournament after being defeated by Aston Villa’s Keinan Davis 6-1 whereas Michael Obafemi from Southampton thrashed professional boxer Tony Bellew, representing Everton, 7-0. ALSO READ: Official: Bundesliga to resume on May 16; final game-week to be played on June 27/28 Archer, who showed some great skills with his joystick, had to bow out of the tournament after a brilliant encounter against Sheffield United defender Josh Eagan with the match ending 4-3 in favour of the latter. With the second edition of ePremier League entering its penultimate stage, more exciting action and nail-biting encounters await the football lovers.

From Jofra Archer to James Maddison: ePremier League 2 kicks off with enthralling action on FIFA 20

The Bundesliga will resume on May 15, the German league confirmed Wednesday, after Chancellor Angela Merkel and state leaders gave the green light to restart behind closed doors following weeks of shutdown imposed to control the spread of the coronavirus.

The German Football League (DFL) confirmed the restart date to AFP subsidiary SID on Wednesday night.

"After weighing up all the arguments, the DFL Executive Committee decided today... to resume play in the Bundesliga and 2nd Bundesliga from 15 May 2020," the DFL said in a statement to magazine Kicker.

Germany's top-flight will become the first of Europe's major leagues to return to the field.

"Matches will be allowed under the approved rules," said Merkel at a press conference in Berlin.

Germany's top politicians approved a plan for the Bundesliga to resume in stadiums without spectators and with players regularly tested.

Permission was granted on condition that strict guidelines are followed -- with a hygiene officer appointed to each team -- to prevent contagion of the virus.

Bayern Munich and Germany captain Manuel Neuer said the players now had an "enormous responsibility" to be role models and follow the hygiene guidelines.

Representatives from the 36 clubs in the country's top two divisions will finalise details in a videoconference on Thursday.

<h2>- 'Wonderful signal' -</h2>

"Today's decision is good news for the Bundesliga," said the league's CEO Christian Seifert.

"It's a great responsibility for the clubs to implement the medical and organisational guidelines in a disciplined manner."

Bayern Munich, seeking their eighth consecutive Geman title, were four points clear at the top of the table when play was halted in mid-March.

"It's a good feeling. We are now looking forward to being able to resume playing," said Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, adding the decision was "an important and wonderful signal for the Bundesliga".

His opposite number at Borussia Dortmund -- the club second in the table behind Bayern -- also welcomed the news.

"We are very pleased that people in Germany have behaved so magnificently that the spread of the pandemic has at least been contained," said Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke.

"Only because the population has been incredibly disciplined can we now gradually move on to another form of normality."

Germany has about 165,000 coronavirus cases and 7,000 deaths, meaning it has so far prevented its hospitals becoming as overburdened as other European countries.

Economic reasons are also driving the decision to allow football to resume.

With 13 of the 36 teams in Germany's top two divisions reportedly on the brink of bankruptcy, the league desperately needs to claim around 300 million euros ($325 million) from TV contracts if the season is completed.

The league has long urged restarting play, which it says is vital for a sector that employs 56,000 people in Germany.

Teams returned to training on April 6 although sessions have followed stringent social distancing rules.

<h2>- 10 cases of coronavirus -</h2>

The league says its intensive testing plan allows matches to be relaunched with low risk to health.

So far, clubs in the top two divisions have returned 10 positive results for coronavirus from 1,724 tests since training resumed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Three are from the Cologne club and two from Borussia Moenchengladbach.

Health Minister Jens Spahn has argued that the testing regime "makes sense and can serve as an example for other forms of professional sport," although he warned "it has to be lived up to".

The league and politicians reacted with consternation when Hertha Berlin player Salomon Kalou filmed himself shaking hands with teammates this week, flaunting the social distancing rules that clubs have put in place.

"The video has done the German league and professional football a disservice," Anja Stahmann, who chairs Germany's regional sports ministers, told RBB radio on Wednesday.

Hertha have suspended Kalou, and the 34-year-old former Chelsea player has apologised.

<h2>- Different approaches -</h2>

Leagues across Europe are taking different approaches to the unprecedented crisis.

The French league announced last week it will not resume the season, with Paris Saint-Germain awarded the top-flight title.

The Netherlands abandoned its season a week earlier.

The English Premier League, Europe's richest league, aims to restart in June, but differences have emerged over plans to use neutral stadiums.

Players in Italy's Serie A returned to training this week and in Spain, Barcelona say players underwent coronavirus tests on Wednesday as La Liga clubs began restricted training ahead of a proposed resumption of the season next month.

The Serbian, Croatian and Turkish leagues have also announced plans for matches to restart.

The Bundesliga will resume on May 15, the German league confirmed Wednesday, after Chancellor Angela Merkel and state leaders gave the green light to restart behind closed doors following weeks of shutdown imposed to control the spread of the coronavirus.

The Bundesliga will resume on May 15, the German league confirmed Wednesday, after Chancellor Angela Merkel and state leaders gave the green light to restart behind closed doors following weeks of shutdown imposed to control the spread of the coronavirus. The German Football League (DFL) confirmed the restart date to AFP subsidiary SID on Wednesday night. "After weighing up all the arguments, the DFL Executive Committee decided today... to resume play in the Bundesliga and 2nd Bundesliga from 15 May 2020," the DFL said in a statement to magazine Kicker. Germany's top-flight will become the first of Europe's major leagues to return to the field. "Matches will be allowed under the approved rules," said Merkel at a press conference in Berlin. Germany's top politicians approved a plan for the Bundesliga to resume in stadiums without spectators and with players regularly tested. Permission was granted on condition that strict guidelines are followed -- with a hygiene officer appointed to each team -- to prevent contagion of the virus. Bayern Munich and Germany captain Manuel Neuer said the players now had an "enormous responsibility" to be role models and follow the hygiene guidelines. Representatives from the 36 clubs in the country's top two divisions will finalise details in a videoconference on Thursday. - 'Wonderful signal' - "Today's decision is good news for the Bundesliga," said the league's CEO Christian Seifert. "It's a great responsibility for the clubs to implement the medical and organisational guidelines in a disciplined manner." Bayern Munich, seeking their eighth consecutive Geman title, were four points clear at the top of the table when play was halted in mid-March. "It's a good feeling. We are now looking forward to being able to resume playing," said Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, adding the decision was "an important and wonderful signal for the Bundesliga". His opposite number at Borussia Dortmund -- the club second in the table behind Bayern -- also welcomed the news. "We are very pleased that people in Germany have behaved so magnificently that the spread of the pandemic has at least been contained," said Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke. "Only because the population has been incredibly disciplined can we now gradually move on to another form of normality." Germany has about 165,000 coronavirus cases and 7,000 deaths, meaning it has so far prevented its hospitals becoming as overburdened as other European countries. Economic reasons are also driving the decision to allow football to resume. With 13 of the 36 teams in Germany's top two divisions reportedly on the brink of bankruptcy, the league desperately needs to claim around 300 million euros ($325 million) from TV contracts if the season is completed. The league has long urged restarting play, which it says is vital for a sector that employs 56,000 people in Germany. Teams returned to training on April 6 although sessions have followed stringent social distancing rules. - 10 cases of coronavirus - The league says its intensive testing plan allows matches to be relaunched with low risk to health. So far, clubs in the top two divisions have returned 10 positive results for coronavirus from 1,724 tests since training resumed. Three are from the Cologne club and two from Borussia Moenchengladbach. Health Minister Jens Spahn has argued that the testing regime "makes sense and can serve as an example for other forms of professional sport," although he warned "it has to be lived up to". The league and politicians reacted with consternation when Hertha Berlin player Salomon Kalou filmed himself shaking hands with teammates this week, flaunting the social distancing rules that clubs have put in place. "The video has done the German league and professional football a disservice," Anja Stahmann, who chairs Germany's regional sports ministers, told RBB radio on Wednesday. Hertha have suspended Kalou, and the 34-year-old former Chelsea player has apologised. - Different approaches - Leagues across Europe are taking different approaches to the unprecedented crisis. The French league announced last week it will not resume the season, with Paris Saint-Germain awarded the top-flight title. The Netherlands abandoned its season a week earlier. The English Premier League, Europe's richest league, aims to restart in June, but differences have emerged over plans to use neutral stadiums. Players in Italy's Serie A returned to training this week and in Spain, Barcelona say players underwent coronavirus tests on Wednesday as La Liga clubs began restricted training ahead of a proposed resumption of the season next month. The Serbian, Croatian and Turkish leagues have also announced plans for matches to restart.

Bundesliga to restart on May 15 after Merkel gives go-ahead

The Premier League is adamant that it can overcome huge logistical challenges to get players back on the pitch during the coronavirus crisis but has long since accepted there will be no fans in the stadiums.

English Football Association chairman Greg Clarke became the latest senior figure to admit this week that social-distancing guidelines make it impossible for supporters to congregate in stadiums "any time soon".

The drive behind the Premier League's "Project Restart" is the attempt to avoid having to pay back millions in TV revenue. Clubs could reportedly miss out on £762 million ($946 million) for failing to complete this season alone.

According to UEFA's latest European Club Footballing Landscape report, just 13 percent of the Premier League's revenue comes from gate receipts.

England's top tier therefore has the luxury many other leagues cannot afford of trying to ride out the economic storm without paying fans coming to watch in the stadium.

"We might not like it, it might not be the perfect solution, but it is the only solution that we've got to move forward," David Webber, a senior lecturer in football studies at Solent University, told AFP.

However, the billions in television revenues the Premier League has been able to tap into is not only thanks to the quality of the players on the field but the atmosphere provided by thousands of passionate fans.

"The whole economic model only works when the grounds are pretty full," said Richard Scudamore, who oversaw the Premier League's growth into a vast commercial giant from 1999 to 2018.

"No actor likes playing in front of an empty hall," he told the Telegraph.

<h2>- June restart? -</h2>

The last time a ball was kicked in the Premier League was on March 9 and it will not return until June at the earliest, with Liverpool's title coronation on hold for now.

After such a long and unexpected lay-off, league bosses are hoping there will be an insatiable demand for their product.

Allowing fans to buy "virtual season tickets" to watch every match live has even been mooted as an idea to help mitigate the loss of matchday income.

But the University of Brighton's Mark Doidge agrees with Scudamore that the essence of what makes the Premier League special might be lost.

"Short-term there might be people who want to watch games on television," said Doidge, a senior research fellow at the School of Sport and Service Management.

"But I think the novelty will wear off very quickly when you realise that actually a large part of what drives the game is not just the people on the pitch, but the people in the stands."

Doidge said players and fans feed off the collective, emotional energy in English stadiums.

"That collective atmosphere is part and parcel of what the game is," he said. "If they haven't got that to feed off, is the quality of football going to be there and ultimately will the televisual experience be there?"

Premier League clubs are reportedly already making contingency plans to play out the whole of the 2020/21 season behind closed doors.

Yet, it remains to be seen if there will be any demand for such a deluge of sanitised matches from armchair supporters, TV companies and even players.

"It's a strange situation not having the fans there. That's what makes football, that's what makes the atmosphere," Tottenham and England midfielder Harry Winks told the BBC.

"It's not something that I like and I know a lot of players feel the same way. It's not something that anybody really wants to do."

The Premier League is adamant that it can overcome huge logistical challenges to get players back on the pitch during the coronavirus crisis but has long since accepted there will be no fans in the stadiums.

The Premier League is adamant that it can overcome huge logistical challenges to get players back on the pitch during the coronavirus crisis but has long since accepted there will be no fans in the stadiums. English Football Association chairman Greg Clarke became the latest senior figure to admit this week that social-distancing guidelines make it impossible for supporters to congregate in stadiums "any time soon". The drive behind the Premier League's "Project Restart" is the attempt to avoid having to pay back millions in TV revenue. Clubs could reportedly miss out on £762 million ($946 million) for failing to complete this season alone. According to UEFA's latest European Club Footballing Landscape report, just 13 percent of the Premier League's revenue comes from gate receipts. England's top tier therefore has the luxury many other leagues cannot afford of trying to ride out the economic storm without paying fans coming to watch in the stadium. "We might not like it, it might not be the perfect solution, but it is the only solution that we've got to move forward," David Webber, a senior lecturer in football studies at Solent University, told AFP. However, the billions in television revenues the Premier League has been able to tap into is not only thanks to the quality of the players on the field but the atmosphere provided by thousands of passionate fans. "The whole economic model only works when the grounds are pretty full," said Richard Scudamore, who oversaw the Premier League's growth into a vast commercial giant from 1999 to 2018. "No actor likes playing in front of an empty hall," he told the Telegraph. - June restart? - The last time a ball was kicked in the Premier League was on March 9 and it will not return until June at the earliest, with Liverpool's title coronation on hold for now. After such a long and unexpected lay-off, league bosses are hoping there will be an insatiable demand for their product. Allowing fans to buy "virtual season tickets" to watch every match live has even been mooted as an idea to help mitigate the loss of matchday income. But the University of Brighton's Mark Doidge agrees with Scudamore that the essence of what makes the Premier League special might be lost. "Short-term there might be people who want to watch games on television," said Doidge, a senior research fellow at the School of Sport and Service Management. "But I think the novelty will wear off very quickly when you realise that actually a large part of what drives the game is not just the people on the pitch, but the people in the stands." Doidge said players and fans feed off the collective, emotional energy in English stadiums. "That collective atmosphere is part and parcel of what the game is," he said. "If they haven't got that to feed off, is the quality of football going to be there and ultimately will the televisual experience be there?" Premier League clubs are reportedly already making contingency plans to play out the whole of the 2020/21 season behind closed doors. Yet, it remains to be seen if there will be any demand for such a deluge of sanitised matches from armchair supporters, TV companies and even players. "It's a strange situation not having the fans there. That's what makes football, that's what makes the atmosphere," Tottenham and England midfielder Harry Winks told the BBC. "It's not something that I like and I know a lot of players feel the same way. It's not something that anybody really wants to do."

Will Premier League with no fans be worth the wait?

Germany’s top-flight league – Bundesliga – will resume on May 16, as confirmed by the German Football League (DFL) on Thursday as it becomes the first major European league to restart amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The final matchday of the Bundesliga 2019-20 season will be played on June 27/28 as the German league looks to end the halted campaign under the terms of a strict health protocol that bans fans from the stadium.

High-profile Ruhr derby between Borussia Dortmund and FC Schalke 04 is scheduled to be played on the relaunch day.&nbsp;

While it was no normal restart given the empty stands and other restrictions, it was crucial to resume play, DFL CEO Christian Seifert told a news conference after a meeting with first and second division clubs following Angela Merkel-led government’s decision to give a nod to Bundesliga’s restart.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/italy-decides-fate-of-suspended-football-season-297218" hreflang="en">Italy decides fate of suspended football season</a>

The DFL, in all likelihood, will finish the season by June 30 to be contractually in compliance with sponsors and broadcasters. The sporting body had warned any further delay could be “existence-threatening” for some clubs.

“The season finale will take place at the end of June,” Seifert said.

Bundesliga, like all other major footballing leagues, has been on a pause since mid-March due to COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/league-by-league-guide-to-european-footballs-coronavirus-shutdown-297145" hreflang="en">League-by-league guide to European football's coronavirus shutdown</a>

Bundesliga’s progress following the resumption is likely to be closely watched by other leagues contemplating to restart their respective season.

German clubs have been training since mid-April under strict conditions including COVID-19 testing of players and coaching staff. &nbsp;The country has reported more than 166,000 infections and more than 7,000 deaths.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Bayern Munich, chasing an eighth successive title, lead the standings with 55 points off 25 matches and are four ahead of Borussia Dortmund with Red Bull Leipzig sitting third with 50 points to their name. There are nine rounds of matches left to play. 
&nbsp;

Germany’s top-flight league – Bundesliga – will resume on May 16, as confirmed by the German Football League (DFL) on Thursday as it becomes the first major European league to restart amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Germany’s top-flight league – Bundesliga – will resume on May 16, as confirmed by the German Football League (DFL) on Thursday as it becomes the first major European league to restart amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The final matchday of the Bundesliga 2019-20 season will be played on June 27/28 as the German league looks to end the halted campaign under the terms of a strict health protocol that bans fans from the stadium. High-profile Ruhr derby between Borussia Dortmund and FC Schalke 04 is scheduled to be played on the relaunch day. While it was no normal restart given the empty stands and other restrictions, it was crucial to resume play, DFL CEO Christian Seifert told a news conference after a meeting with first and second division clubs following Angela Merkel-led government’s decision to give a nod to Bundesliga’s restart. ALSO READ: Italy decides fate of suspended football season The DFL, in all likelihood, will finish the season by June 30 to be contractually in compliance with sponsors and broadcasters. The sporting body had warned any further delay could be “existence-threatening” for some clubs. “The season finale will take place at the end of June,” Seifert said. Bundesliga, like all other major footballing leagues, has been on a pause since mid-March due to COVID-19 outbreak. ALSO READ: League-by-league guide to European football's coronavirus shutdown Bundesliga’s progress following the resumption is likely to be closely watched by other leagues contemplating to restart their respective season. German clubs have been training since mid-April under strict conditions including COVID-19 testing of players and coaching staff. The country has reported more than 166,000 infections and more than 7,000 deaths. Meanwhile, Bayern Munich, chasing an eighth successive title, lead the standings with 55 points off 25 matches and are four ahead of Borussia Dortmund with Red Bull Leipzig sitting third with 50 points to their name. There are nine rounds of matches left to play.

Official: Bundesliga to resume on May 16; final game-week to be played on June 27/28

The fate of the Serie A championship hung in the balance Thursday as state scientists huddled with football bosses in a desperate effort to save the pandemic-interrupted season.

The high stakes talks come with pressure mounting from sports-deprived fans and cash-starved sponsors for Italy to follow the German Bundesliga's lead and return to action.

Serie A began to descend into chaos at the end of February as the new coronavirus swept across Italy's north -- home to big teams such as Inter Milan and Juventus.

Several important matches were rescheduled. Some teams in the south played regularly and others in the north were not even able to train.

The league eventually threw up its hands and suspended the championship on March 9.

Fewer than 500 people had then died of the virus and the league was hoping to kick off again by early April.

Italy's official toll now stands at almost 30,000 and the time to pin the Scudetto badge on the shirts of the undisputed Serie A champion is running out.

Italy's Sport Mediaset channel called Thursday "the most important day for the future of our championship".

<h2>- 'Desperate measures' -</h2>

Some eager clubs have already opened up their grounds to players ahead of the official resumption of organised training on May 18.

Cristiano Ronaldo will have to observe a 14-day quarantine after returning to Italy from nearly two months of confinement in Portugal.

His Juventus teammate Paulo Dybala said Wednesday he has been given the all-clear after first testing positive for the virus together with his girlfriend.

But rivals Torino confirmed that one of their players had tested positive and the issue of how to keep the disease from spreading on the pitch remains unresolved.

"I hope to restart football," Italy's Sports Minister Vincenzo Spadafora said ahead of the meeting.

"But if the safety issues are not settled, the government will decide to shut things down."

Media reports said the discussion could run on into the weekend as the sides try to figure out proper virus testing procedures and the logistics of travel through contagion zones.

Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte -- the first Western leader to impose a national lockdown to ward off the pandemic in March -- was expected to have the final say.

But Conte has erred on the side of caution throughout the crisis. He upset many at the end of April by delaying an expected announcement on when matches can resume.

Former Football Federation president Carlo Tavecchio warned that Italy's top three leagues faced the threat of lawsuits if their seasons were called off.

"If the championship is not finished, the rules of FIFA and UEFA will not be respected and there will be a lot of litigation, with losses not only for Serie A but also Series B and Serie C," Tavecchio said.

The former football executive said the "Italian system will default" unless the number of teams is immediately reduced.

"Football must be rescued through desperate measures," Tavecchio said.

The fate of the Serie A championship hung in the balance Thursday as state scientists huddled with football bosses in a desperate effort to save the pandemic-interrupted season.

The fate of the Serie A championship hung in the balance Thursday as state scientists huddled with football bosses in a desperate effort to save the pandemic-interrupted season. The high stakes talks come with pressure mounting from sports-deprived fans and cash-starved sponsors for Italy to follow the German Bundesliga's lead and return to action. Serie A began to descend into chaos at the end of February as the new coronavirus swept across Italy's north -- home to big teams such as Inter Milan and Juventus. Several important matches were rescheduled. Some teams in the south played regularly and others in the north were not even able to train. The league eventually threw up its hands and suspended the championship on March 9. Fewer than 500 people had then died of the virus and the league was hoping to kick off again by early April. Italy's official toll now stands at almost 30,000 and the time to pin the Scudetto badge on the shirts of the undisputed Serie A champion is running out. Italy's Sport Mediaset channel called Thursday "the most important day for the future of our championship". - 'Desperate measures' - Some eager clubs have already opened up their grounds to players ahead of the official resumption of organised training on May 18. Cristiano Ronaldo will have to observe a 14-day quarantine after returning to Italy from nearly two months of confinement in Portugal. His Juventus teammate Paulo Dybala said Wednesday he has been given the all-clear after first testing positive for the virus together with his girlfriend. But rivals Torino confirmed that one of their players had tested positive and the issue of how to keep the disease from spreading on the pitch remains unresolved. "I hope to restart football," Italy's Sports Minister Vincenzo Spadafora said ahead of the meeting. "But if the safety issues are not settled, the government will decide to shut things down." Media reports said the discussion could run on into the weekend as the sides try to figure out proper virus testing procedures and the logistics of travel through contagion zones. Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte -- the first Western leader to impose a national lockdown to ward off the pandemic in March -- was expected to have the final say. But Conte has erred on the side of caution throughout the crisis. He upset many at the end of April by delaying an expected announcement on when matches can resume. Former Football Federation president Carlo Tavecchio warned that Italy's top three leagues faced the threat of lawsuits if their seasons were called off. "If the championship is not finished, the rules of FIFA and UEFA will not be respected and there will be a lot of litigation, with losses not only for Serie A but also Series B and Serie C," Tavecchio said. The former football executive said the "Italian system will default" unless the number of teams is immediately reduced. "Football must be rescued through desperate measures," Tavecchio said.

Italy decides fate of suspended football season

Manchester City will face a High Court trial over damages claims from eight men who were sexually abused by paedophile football coach Barry Bennell.

Bennell's abuse took place while he is said to have been working for City as a scout and coach of their "feeder teams", which featured players too young to be signed as schoolboys.

The eight men, who are now in their late 40s or early 50s, are all claiming damages against the Premier League club for the "very serious psychiatric injuries" they suffered as a result of the abuse.

Bennell is currently serving a 30-year jail term for multiple offences against 12 boys he coached, some of whom are bringing the High Court action, between 1979 and 1991.

Bennell, who is thought not to have received an official salary from City, had two three-year spells within the club's youth network between 1976 and 1984.

He then went on to work as Crewe's youth team coach for seven years.

The claimants argue that, while Bennell was not officially on City's "books", the club is still vicariously liable for the abuse.

All but one of the eight are claiming damages for "the loss of a chance to pursue a career as a footballer".

Two of the men are also bringing claims against Crewe, where Bennell was employed as a youth coach after leaving City.

Both City and Crewe deny that they are vicariously liable for the abuse committed.

City and Crewe also argue that the claims have been brought too late to be heard by the court, and dispute the extent to which the abuse is said to have caused the claimants financial or other losses.

Mrs Justice Lambert ordered that all eight claims be heard together at an eight-week trial which is provisionally listed to start in October 2021.

Manchester City will face a High Court trial over damages claims from eight men who were sexually abused by paedophile football coach Barry Bennell. Bennell's abuse took place while he is said to have been working for City as a scout and coach of their "feeder teams", which featured players too young to be signed as schoolboys.

Manchester City will face a High Court trial over damages claims from eight men who were sexually abused by paedophile football coach Barry Bennell. Bennell's abuse took place while he is said to have been working for City as a scout and coach of their "feeder teams", which featured players too young to be signed as schoolboys. The eight men, who are now in their late 40s or early 50s, are all claiming damages against the Premier League club for the "very serious psychiatric injuries" they suffered as a result of the abuse. Bennell is currently serving a 30-year jail term for multiple offences against 12 boys he coached, some of whom are bringing the High Court action, between 1979 and 1991. Bennell, who is thought not to have received an official salary from City, had two three-year spells within the club's youth network between 1976 and 1984. He then went on to work as Crewe's youth team coach for seven years. The claimants argue that, while Bennell was not officially on City's "books", the club is still vicariously liable for the abuse. All but one of the eight are claiming damages for "the loss of a chance to pursue a career as a footballer". Two of the men are also bringing claims against Crewe, where Bennell was employed as a youth coach after leaving City. Both City and Crewe deny that they are vicariously liable for the abuse committed. City and Crewe also argue that the claims have been brought too late to be heard by the court, and dispute the extent to which the abuse is said to have caused the claimants financial or other losses. Mrs Justice Lambert ordered that all eight claims be heard together at an eight-week trial which is provisionally listed to start in October 2021.

Man City face damages claim in High Court over Bennell abuse

Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan said the US women's national team will appeal against defeat in their equal pay lawsuit on Monday, describing the &nbsp;judge's ruling in the case as "shocking".

In a widely unexpected decision on Friday, Judge Gary Klausner rejected the US women's claim of pay discrimination, finding in favour of the United States Soccer Federation.

Although the judge said claims of gender discrimination in areas such as travel, housing and medical support could proceed to trial, the equal pay part of the lawsuit -- the central plank of the women's case -- had been dismissed.

Speaking on ABC television's Good Morning America program on Monday, Rapinoe and Morgan voiced dismay at the outcome but pledged to fight on.

"We were just shocked," Morgan said. "This decision was out of left field for us. I think for both sides it was very unexpected. We will definitely be appealing and moving forward.&nbsp;

"If anyone knows anything about the heart of this team, we are fighters and we will continue to fight together for this."

In dismissing the equal pay claim, Judge Klausner said the case was unwarranted because there was evidence the women had previously turned down an offer in the Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations to be paid along the lines of the US men's team.

However Rapinoe challenged that part of the judge's decision.

"The men's contract was never offered to us and certainly not the same amount of money," Rapinoe said.

"I think so many women can understand what this feeling is of going into a negotiation, knowing equal pay is not on the table, knowing anywhere close to your male counterparts is not even on the table."

Rapinoe also said the fact that the women had earned more than the US men during the period where pay discrimination was alleged was also misleading.

In the period in question, the women's team played 111 games and earned $24.5 million. The men played 87 games and made $18.5 million. The men's figure however would likely have been substantially higher had they qualified for the 2018 World Cup.&nbsp;

"If we were under the men’s contract, we would be making three times more," Rapinoe said.&nbsp;

"So you can look at the total compensation. In that time that we've made just a little bit more, we've won two World Cups and we've won just about every single game that we've played in.&nbsp;

"So the rate of pay is just so different. It's just so frustrating."

The US women, who clinched back-to-back World Cup wins with victory at last year's finals in France, had been seeking back pay of $66 million under the US Equal Pay Act.

Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan said the US women's national team will appeal against defeat in their equal pay lawsuit on Monday, describing the judge's ruling in the case as "shocking".

Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan said the US women's national team will appeal against defeat in their equal pay lawsuit on Monday, describing the judge's ruling in the case as "shocking". In a widely unexpected decision on Friday, Judge Gary Klausner rejected the US women's claim of pay discrimination, finding in favour of the United States Soccer Federation. Although the judge said claims of gender discrimination in areas such as travel, housing and medical support could proceed to trial, the equal pay part of the lawsuit -- the central plank of the women's case -- had been dismissed. Speaking on ABC television's Good Morning America program on Monday, Rapinoe and Morgan voiced dismay at the outcome but pledged to fight on. "We were just shocked," Morgan said. "This decision was out of left field for us. I think for both sides it was very unexpected. We will definitely be appealing and moving forward. "If anyone knows anything about the heart of this team, we are fighters and we will continue to fight together for this." In dismissing the equal pay claim, Judge Klausner said the case was unwarranted because there was evidence the women had previously turned down an offer in the Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations to be paid along the lines of the US men's team. However Rapinoe challenged that part of the judge's decision. "The men's contract was never offered to us and certainly not the same amount of money," Rapinoe said. "I think so many women can understand what this feeling is of going into a negotiation, knowing equal pay is not on the table, knowing anywhere close to your male counterparts is not even on the table." Rapinoe also said the fact that the women had earned more than the US men during the period where pay discrimination was alleged was also misleading. In the period in question, the women's team played 111 games and earned $24.5 million. The men played 87 games and made $18.5 million. The men's figure however would likely have been substantially higher had they qualified for the 2018 World Cup. "If we were under the men’s contract, we would be making three times more," Rapinoe said. "So you can look at the total compensation. In that time that we've made just a little bit more, we've won two World Cups and we've won just about every single game that we've played in. "So the rate of pay is just so different. It's just so frustrating." The US women, who clinched back-to-back World Cup wins with victory at last year's finals in France, had been seeking back pay of $66 million under the US Equal Pay Act.

'Shocked' US women stars to appeal equal pay defeat

Welsh international Aaron Ramsey was the first Juventus player to return to individual training at the team's sports centre in Turin on Tuesday as Cristiano Ronaldo began two weeks' quarantine after returning to Italy.

Ronaldo flew back to northern Italy by private jet on Monday night after almost two months in coronavirus lockdown in his native Portugal.

Midfielder Ramsey joined Juventus this season after 11 years with Arsenal, and scored his fourth goal in their last game against Inter Milan behind closed doors before the championship was suspended on March 10.

Champions Juventus are leading Serie A, one point ahead of Lazio, as they target a ninth consecutive Scudetto.

Captain Giorgio Chiellini followed shortly after Ramsey, with fellow Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci, wearing a black face mask, arriving later in the afternoon.

Italy's interior ministry has given the go-ahead for players to return to club training facilities two weeks ahead of schedule, offering a glimmer of hope that the 2019-20 season might yet be saved.

But sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora warned that training in groups must wait until May 18, and it remains uncertain whether matches can restart as the country battles a pandemic which has killed over 29,000.

"A realistic prediction can be made in mid-May," Spadafora said in an interview with Corriere della Sera on Tuesday, denying that he wanted to call a halt to the season.&nbsp;

"It would be surreal for a sports minister to demonise football," he said.

"The majority of Italians do not welcome the resumption of the championship.&nbsp;

"But I'm not looking at polls at the moment. Football is an important world in this country, I know it well compared to those who want to give a different message.

"I hope to start again, but the government will decide. We will rely on scientific elements, which are not available today.

"There is no opposition of mine, but the desire to evaluate the restart only if the health of the people within the team group is safeguarded.

"If the government is forced, I hope not, to establish that there are no conditions (to resume), my effort will be twofold -- limit the financial damage to clubs and support the whole world of sport.

"Between ordinary and extraordinary resources, we will invest about one billion euros for the sector as a whole."&nbsp;

Welsh international Aaron Ramsey was the first Juventus player to return to individual training at the team's sports centre in Turin on Tuesday as Cristiano Ronaldo began two weeks' quarantine after returning to Italy.

Welsh international Aaron Ramsey was the first Juventus player to return to individual training at the team's sports centre in Turin on Tuesday as Cristiano Ronaldo began two weeks' quarantine after returning to Italy. Ronaldo flew back to northern Italy by private jet on Monday night after almost two months in coronavirus lockdown in his native Portugal. Midfielder Ramsey joined Juventus this season after 11 years with Arsenal, and scored his fourth goal in their last game against Inter Milan behind closed doors before the championship was suspended on March 10. Champions Juventus are leading Serie A, one point ahead of Lazio, as they target a ninth consecutive Scudetto. Captain Giorgio Chiellini followed shortly after Ramsey, with fellow Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci, wearing a black face mask, arriving later in the afternoon. Italy's interior ministry has given the go-ahead for players to return to club training facilities two weeks ahead of schedule, offering a glimmer of hope that the 2019-20 season might yet be saved. But sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora warned that training in groups must wait until May 18, and it remains uncertain whether matches can restart as the country battles a pandemic which has killed over 29,000. "A realistic prediction can be made in mid-May," Spadafora said in an interview with Corriere della Sera on Tuesday, denying that he wanted to call a halt to the season. "It would be surreal for a sports minister to demonise football," he said. "The majority of Italians do not welcome the resumption of the championship. "But I'm not looking at polls at the moment. Football is an important world in this country, I know it well compared to those who want to give a different message. "I hope to start again, but the government will decide. We will rely on scientific elements, which are not available today. "There is no opposition of mine, but the desire to evaluate the restart only if the health of the people within the team group is safeguarded. "If the government is forced, I hope not, to establish that there are no conditions (to resume), my effort will be twofold -- limit the financial damage to clubs and support the whole world of sport. "Between ordinary and extraordinary resources, we will invest about one billion euros for the sector as a whole."

Ramsey first back at Juve training, Ronaldo in quarantine

As Premier League is finalizing proposals and ideas for a possible resumption of the halted 2019-20 campaign, Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) chief executive Gordon Taylor has hinted that halves may be shorter than the usual 45 minutes as discussions continue about Premier League’s future.&nbsp;

Most of the English top-flight clubs are on the same page while remaining committed to restarting the 2019-20 season but said: "it was agreed that the PFA, LMA, players and managers are key to this process and will be further consulted".

Safety and well-being of individual players returning to work are crucial and Taylor said the authorities are working to put the safety of players first with a possibility of resuming the league in mid-June. But what comes as a major surprise is that there is a possibility of matches being less than 90 minutes, which is the professional rule for all the matches.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-eyes-june-return-as-real-sociedad-athletic-bilbao-request-copa-del-rey-final-to-be-played-in-front-of-fans-296755" hreflang="en">La Liga eyes June return as Real Sociedad, Athletic Bilbao request Copa del Rey final to be played in front of fans</a>

"They're not stupid," Taylor said in a radio programme. "They will put safety first.

"There is a protocol being put together that is going to be presented, involving all medical experts and Government medical experts,” Taylor added.

Premier League&nbsp;shareholders' meeting on Friday is key as the authorities are planning to layout a document as soon as possible.&nbsp;

"There will be a meeting of the shareholders of the Premier League on Friday and then shortly after that the document of returning to work should be finalised and then in the following week, next week, as early as possible, that will be put to players and coaches," Taylor added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-spitting-no-fans-baseball-restarts-south-koreas-sports-season-296751" hreflang="en">No spitting, no fans: Baseball restarts South Korea's sports season</a>

"Then the practicality of all those issues and it will be looked at club by club."

However, Taylor clarified that nothing has been finalised and everything right now are simply proposals: "We'll have to wait and see. I'm talking about a protocol that's coming out. I'm talking about the future.

"We don't know the future. What we do know is what propositions have been put, what ideas have been put, the possibility of having more substitutes, games possibly not being the full 45 minutes each way.

"There are talks of neutral stadiums. There have been lots of things being put forward.

"Try and wait and see what the proposals are, and then have the courtesy to let the managers and coaches and players also assimilate all those and come to a considered view." 
&nbsp;

As Premier League is finalizing proposals and ideas for a possible resumption of the halted 2019-20 campaign, Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) chief executive Gordon Taylor has hinted that halves may be shorter than the usual 45 minutes as discussions continue about Premier League’s future.

As Premier League is finalizing proposals and ideas for a possible resumption of the halted 2019-20 campaign, Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) chief executive Gordon Taylor has hinted that halves may be shorter than the usual 45 minutes as discussions continue about Premier League’s future. Most of the English top-flight clubs are on the same page while remaining committed to restarting the 2019-20 season but said: "it was agreed that the PFA, LMA, players and managers are key to this process and will be further consulted". Safety and well-being of individual players returning to work are crucial and Taylor said the authorities are working to put the safety of players first with a possibility of resuming the league in mid-June. But what comes as a major surprise is that there is a possibility of matches being less than 90 minutes, which is the professional rule for all the matches. ALSO READ: La Liga eyes June return as Real Sociedad, Athletic Bilbao request Copa del Rey final to be played in front of fans "They're not stupid," Taylor said in a radio programme. "They will put safety first. "There is a protocol being put together that is going to be presented, involving all medical experts and Government medical experts,” Taylor added. Premier League shareholders' meeting on Friday is key as the authorities are planning to layout a document as soon as possible. "There will be a meeting of the shareholders of the Premier League on Friday and then shortly after that the document of returning to work should be finalised and then in the following week, next week, as early as possible, that will be put to players and coaches," Taylor added. ALSO READ: No spitting, no fans: Baseball restarts South Korea's sports season "Then the practicality of all those issues and it will be looked at club by club." However, Taylor clarified that nothing has been finalised and everything right now are simply proposals: "We'll have to wait and see. I'm talking about a protocol that's coming out. I'm talking about the future. "We don't know the future. What we do know is what propositions have been put, what ideas have been put, the possibility of having more substitutes, games possibly not being the full 45 minutes each way. "There are talks of neutral stadiums. There have been lots of things being put forward. "Try and wait and see what the proposals are, and then have the courtesy to let the managers and coaches and players also assimilate all those and come to a considered view."

Halves shorter than 45 minutes? PFA chief Gordon Taylor hints at change of rules as Premier League gears up for return

Spanish football authorities on Monday chalked out plans to resume the halted La Liga 2019-20 season in June with clubs getting permission to return to training this week for individual training – two months after the campaign was postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Players, who were restricted to train indoors amid lockdown measures, will begin individual training this week after the Spanish government lifted sports-related measures.&nbsp;

La Liga president Javier Tebas said that the league has a comprehensive protocol to safeguard the health and well-being of everyone involved in the resumption of the season in the month of June.

"People's health is paramount, so we have a comprehensive protocol to safeguard the health of everyone involved as we work to restart La Liga," league president Javier Tebas said in the statement.

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"Circumstances are unprecedented, but we hope to start playing again in June and finish our 19/20 season this summer."

<h2>Players allowed to train</h2>

From Tuesday, footballers in Spain will undergo COVID-19 tests and will be allowed to take to the field once the result is out negative.

Earlier, Tebas had said that Spanish first and second-division football could start on May 28-29, June 6-7 or June 28-29 with the possibility of matches happening behind closed doors.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-returns-to-turin-after-coronavirus-lockdown-296743" hreflang="en">Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Turin after coronavirus lockdown</a>

Meanwhile, Copa Del Rey finalists – Real Sociedad and Athletic Bilbao – issued a joint request to play the summit clash of the tournament in front of fans and the request has received support from the Spanish football federation (RFEF). This would be the first all-Basque final in the history of the competition.

"The desire and will of both clubs have always been, now and before, to play and enjoy the final match along with the supporters," they said in a joint press release. "This is what we would like most. A final to be lived with our supporters in the stands."

The fixture was originally scheduled for April 18 in Seville at the Olympic Stadium, known as La Cartuja. But no new date has been fixed, as of now. 
&nbsp;

Spanish football authorities on Monday chalked out plans to resume the halted La Liga 2019-20 season in June with clubs getting permission to return to training this week for individual training – two months after the campaign was postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Spanish football authorities on Monday chalked out plans to resume the halted La Liga 2019-20 season in June with clubs getting permission to return to training this week for individual training – two months after the campaign was postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic. Players, who were restricted to train indoors amid lockdown measures, will begin individual training this week after the Spanish government lifted sports-related measures. La Liga president Javier Tebas said that the league has a comprehensive protocol to safeguard the health and well-being of everyone involved in the resumption of the season in the month of June. "People's health is paramount, so we have a comprehensive protocol to safeguard the health of everyone involved as we work to restart La Liga," league president Javier Tebas said in the statement. ALSO READ: No spitting, no fans: baseball restarts S. Korea's sports season "Circumstances are unprecedented, but we hope to start playing again in June and finish our 19/20 season this summer." Players allowed to train From Tuesday, footballers in Spain will undergo COVID-19 tests and will be allowed to take to the field once the result is out negative. Earlier, Tebas had said that Spanish first and second-division football could start on May 28-29, June 6-7 or June 28-29 with the possibility of matches happening behind closed doors. ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Turin after coronavirus lockdown Meanwhile, Copa Del Rey finalists – Real Sociedad and Athletic Bilbao – issued a joint request to play the summit clash of the tournament in front of fans and the request has received support from the Spanish football federation (RFEF). This would be the first all-Basque final in the history of the competition. "The desire and will of both clubs have always been, now and before, to play and enjoy the final match along with the supporters," they said in a joint press release. "This is what we would like most. A final to be lived with our supporters in the stands." The fixture was originally scheduled for April 18 in Seville at the Olympic Stadium, known as La Cartuja. But no new date has been fixed, as of now.

La Liga eyes June return as Real Sociedad, Athletic Bilbao request Copa del Rey final to be played in front of fans

Germany's minister for the interior and sport said Sunday he supports a resumption of the country's football season this month despite three people testing positive for coronavirus at Bundesliga club Cologne.

"I find the schedule proposed by the German league plausible and I support the restart in May," Horst Seehofer told Bild newspaper, three days before a meeting of German authorities to discuss the issue.

The German Football League (DFL) backs matches resuming without spectators around mid-May, which would make it the first major European championship to make such a move.

The sports ministers of the 16 German states have also approved the DFL's plans.

Seehofer, who plays a key government role on the issue as he holds several portfolios, has emphasised that the teams and players must respect several conditions.

"If there is a case of coronavirus in a team or its management, the club as a whole, and possibly also the team against which it last played, must go into quarantine for two weeks," he said.

"There will continue therefore to be risks for the schedule of matches and for the standings," if there is any contamination.

But he said clubs would not have any special testing privileges denied to the rest of the population. Some sides had suggested carrying out frequent tests of their players as a preventative measure against the virus.

Germany had reported 162,496 cases of COVID-19 as of Sunday, but its death toll of 6,649 remains considerably lower than that of comparable European countries, which are home to the continent's other top football leagues.

<h2>- 'Health is priority' -</h2>

In France, Paris Saint-Germain were declared Ligue 1 champions on Thursday after French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced professional sport could not resume before September.

Meanwhile, English Premier League clubs on Friday reconfirmed their commitment to finish the season subject to coronavirus restrictions being lifted.

There are still 92 games remaining. They will be behind closed doors with neutral venues suggested.

Also on Friday Italy's 20 Serie A clubs reiterated their unanimous desire to complete the season despite sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora saying the chances of restarting were "increasingly narrow".

In Spain, La Liga is planning to start testing players for the coronavirus between Tuesday and Thursday next week, after which they would then be able to resume individual training programmes within 48 hours.

Clubs in Germany resumed training in early April while adhering to strict social distancing guidelines. However, the risk is still apparent.

Cologne announced Friday three people had tested positive for the virus and were to be placed into a 14-day quarantine at home.

Cologne midfielder Birger Verstraete, whose partner suffers from a heart condition, said it was "strange" the club had not put the whole squad in quarantine following the tests, as suggested by Seehofer.

"It's not up to me to decide what to do in the Bundesliga but I can say my head is not in football" at the moment, he told Flemish TV station VTM. "The health of my family, of my partner is the priority."

Germany's minister for the interior and sport said Sunday he supports a resumption of the country's football season this month despite three people testing positive for coronavirus at Bundesliga club Cologne.

Germany's minister for the interior and sport said Sunday he supports a resumption of the country's football season this month despite three people testing positive for coronavirus at Bundesliga club Cologne. "I find the schedule proposed by the German league plausible and I support the restart in May," Horst Seehofer told Bild newspaper, three days before a meeting of German authorities to discuss the issue. The German Football League (DFL) backs matches resuming without spectators around mid-May, which would make it the first major European championship to make such a move. The sports ministers of the 16 German states have also approved the DFL's plans. Seehofer, who plays a key government role on the issue as he holds several portfolios, has emphasised that the teams and players must respect several conditions. "If there is a case of coronavirus in a team or its management, the club as a whole, and possibly also the team against which it last played, must go into quarantine for two weeks," he said. "There will continue therefore to be risks for the schedule of matches and for the standings," if there is any contamination. But he said clubs would not have any special testing privileges denied to the rest of the population. Some sides had suggested carrying out frequent tests of their players as a preventative measure against the virus. Germany had reported 162,496 cases of COVID-19 as of Sunday, but its death toll of 6,649 remains considerably lower than that of comparable European countries, which are home to the continent's other top football leagues. - 'Health is priority' - In France, Paris Saint-Germain were declared Ligue 1 champions on Thursday after French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced professional sport could not resume before September. Meanwhile, English Premier League clubs on Friday reconfirmed their commitment to finish the season subject to coronavirus restrictions being lifted. There are still 92 games remaining. They will be behind closed doors with neutral venues suggested. Also on Friday Italy's 20 Serie A clubs reiterated their unanimous desire to complete the season despite sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora saying the chances of restarting were "increasingly narrow". In Spain, La Liga is planning to start testing players for the coronavirus between Tuesday and Thursday next week, after which they would then be able to resume individual training programmes within 48 hours. Clubs in Germany resumed training in early April while adhering to strict social distancing guidelines. However, the risk is still apparent. Cologne announced Friday three people had tested positive for the virus and were to be placed into a 14-day quarantine at home. Cologne midfielder Birger Verstraete, whose partner suffers from a heart condition, said it was "strange" the club had not put the whole squad in quarantine following the tests, as suggested by Seehofer. "It's not up to me to decide what to do in the Bundesliga but I can say my head is not in football" at the moment, he told Flemish TV station VTM. "The health of my family, of my partner is the priority."

Influential German minister backs Bundesliga restart this month

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne&nbsp;believes the Premier League season will be finished despite the coronavirus pandemic "because the financial aspect is far too important".

"My feeling is that we may be able to train again within two weeks. The government&nbsp;wants to restart football as soon as possible to give people something. I think this season will be finished," De Bruyne told Belgian daily Het Laatste Nieuws.

"The financial aspect is far too important in the Premier League. If the season is not finished, it will cause serious problems," he added.

Clubs were presented with the league's "Project Restart" plans at a meeting on Friday and were told the remaining 92 matches of the 2019-2020 season must be played at neutral venues.

De Bruyne also said he was optimistic about City's participation in next season's Champions League. UEFA has banned the club from European competition for the next two years for "serious breaches" of financial fair-play rules.

"The club told us they're going to appeal and that they're almost certain to get their way. I'm waiting to see what happens, but I trust my club," said De Bruyne.

The 28-year-old Belgium international admitted he would be forced to consider his City future if the ban was upheld.

"Once we know more, I will make a decision. Two years without playing in Europe would be long but in the case of one year I might see," he said.&nbsp;

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne believes the Premier League season will be finished despite the coronavirus pandemic "because the financial aspect is far too important".

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne believes the Premier League season will be finished despite the coronavirus pandemic "because the financial aspect is far too important". "My feeling is that we may be able to train again within two weeks. The government wants to restart football as soon as possible to give people something. I think this season will be finished," De Bruyne told Belgian daily Het Laatste Nieuws. "The financial aspect is far too important in the Premier League. If the season is not finished, it will cause serious problems," he added. Clubs were presented with the league's "Project Restart" plans at a meeting on Friday and were told the remaining 92 matches of the 2019-2020 season must be played at neutral venues. De Bruyne also said he was optimistic about City's participation in next season's Champions League. UEFA has banned the club from European competition for the next two years for "serious breaches" of financial fair-play rules. "The club told us they're going to appeal and that they're almost certain to get their way. I'm waiting to see what happens, but I trust my club," said De Bruyne. The 28-year-old Belgium international admitted he would be forced to consider his City future if the ban was upheld. "Once we know more, I will make a decision. Two years without playing in Europe would be long but in the case of one year I might see," he said.

Kevin De Bruyne believes Premier League will play to conclusion

With a lot of debates and discussions going around the possible return of Premier League, the English Football Association (FA) are planning to slash its annual budget by 75 million pounds to tackle an estimated loss of 300 million pounds over the next four-year cycle due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Chairman Greg Clarke has also warned the FA Council members, in a letter, that it would take quite some time for the fans to return to stadiums to attend live matches again. Clarke further said that FA’s plans and the future project will also be impacted due to the cut in the annual budget and revised planning is already being chalked out.&nbsp;

“The Board has agreed that a sensible cut to the annual budget is 75 million pounds,” he said.

“In a worst-case scenario, this would be necessary for the next four years to offset a 300 million pounds deficit.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/english-fa-bracing-for-long-spell-without-fans-296592" hreflang="en">English FA bracing for long spell without fans</a>

“Clearly that will impact many of our plans as every area of the game will be touched and projects that we all value will be affected. There is no other way and I ask for all of you to help us to build this revised plan.”

The FA Council is set to meet again on May 21.&nbsp;

Professional football, including the Premier League, has been suspended since mid-March due to COVID-19 pandemic which has claimed around 28,500 people in Britain.

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Premier League on Friday had a conference call to discuss the resumption of training later in the month of May followed by a return to competitive action in empty stadiums in June.&nbsp;

Events held at Wembley Stadium in 2018-19 generated income of 70.6 million pounds out of the FA’s total turnover of 467 million.

The FA also had broadcast income, from domestic and international rights to the FA Cup and England matches, of 262.6 million.

“The reality is that we just don’t know how things are going to pan out, but with social distancing in place for some time to come we do face substantial changes to the whole football ecosystem,” said Clarke.

“For example it’s hard to foresee crowds of fans, who are the lifeblood of the game, returning to matches any time soon.” 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

With a lot of debates and discussions going around the possible return of Premier League, the English Football Association (FA) are planning to slash its annual budget by 75 million pounds to tackle an estimated loss of 300 million pounds over the next four-year cycle due to COVID-19 pandemic.

With a lot of debates and discussions going around the possible return of Premier League, the English Football Association (FA) are planning to slash its annual budget by 75 million pounds to tackle an estimated loss of 300 million pounds over the next four-year cycle due to COVID-19 pandemic. Chairman Greg Clarke has also warned the FA Council members, in a letter, that it would take quite some time for the fans to return to stadiums to attend live matches again. Clarke further said that FA’s plans and the future project will also be impacted due to the cut in the annual budget and revised planning is already being chalked out. “The Board has agreed that a sensible cut to the annual budget is 75 million pounds,” he said. “In a worst-case scenario, this would be necessary for the next four years to offset a 300 million pounds deficit. ALSO READ: English FA bracing for long spell without fans “Clearly that will impact many of our plans as every area of the game will be touched and projects that we all value will be affected. There is no other way and I ask for all of you to help us to build this revised plan.” The FA Council is set to meet again on May 21. Professional football, including the Premier League, has been suspended since mid-March due to COVID-19 pandemic which has claimed around 28,500 people in Britain. ALSO READ: Philippe Coutinho might snub English teams to stay in Bundesliga Premier League on Friday had a conference call to discuss the resumption of training later in the month of May followed by a return to competitive action in empty stadiums in June. Events held at Wembley Stadium in 2018-19 generated income of 70.6 million pounds out of the FA’s total turnover of 467 million. The FA also had broadcast income, from domestic and international rights to the FA Cup and England matches, of 262.6 million. “The reality is that we just don’t know how things are going to pan out, but with social distancing in place for some time to come we do face substantial changes to the whole football ecosystem,” said Clarke. “For example it’s hard to foresee crowds of fans, who are the lifeblood of the game, returning to matches any time soon.” (With inputs from agencies)

FA expected to slash annual budget by 75 million pounds due to COVID-19 pandemic

English Football Association chairman Greg Clarke does not believe fans will be allowed into stadiums "any time soon" and has warned that the coronavirus crisis could cost the governing body £300 million ($373 million).

Football across England has been indefinitely suspended, with the 2019/20 season in all leagues below the top four divisions already declared over.

However, there are growing fears that the 2020/21 campaign also faces huge disruption due to social-distancing guidelines.

"With social distancing in place for some time to come we do face substantial changes to the whole football ecosystem," Clarke wrote in a letter to the FA Council.

"For example, it's hard to foresee crowds of fans, who are the lifeblood of the game, returning to matches any time soon."

The Premier League is still hoping to finish the season behind closed doors, with "Project Restart" aimed at minimising a predicted £1 billion loss if the campaign cannot be completed.

It is understood top-flight clubs were told on Friday that the remaining matches of the season must be played at neutral venues.

Further down the pyramid, where gate receipts make up a much higher percentage of clubs' income without lucrative TV deals, there are doubts over whether a new season can even start without fans being allowed to attend.&nbsp;

The FA has also been affected by the cancellation of at least four England fixtures and the suspension of the FA Cup.

Clarke said a "sensible" £75 million budget cut had been agreed.

"In a worst-case scenario, this would be necessary for the next four years to offset a £300 million deficit," he added.

"Clearly that will impact many of our plans as every area of the game will be touched and projects that we all value will be affected."

English Football Association chairman Greg Clarke does not believe fans will be allowed into stadiums "any time soon" and has warned that the coronavirus crisis could cost the governing body £300 million ($373 million).

English Football Association chairman Greg Clarke does not believe fans will be allowed into stadiums "any time soon" and has warned that the coronavirus crisis could cost the governing body £300 million ($373 million). Football across England has been indefinitely suspended, with the 2019/20 season in all leagues below the top four divisions already declared over. However, there are growing fears that the 2020/21 campaign also faces huge disruption due to social-distancing guidelines. "With social distancing in place for some time to come we do face substantial changes to the whole football ecosystem," Clarke wrote in a letter to the FA Council. "For example, it's hard to foresee crowds of fans, who are the lifeblood of the game, returning to matches any time soon." The Premier League is still hoping to finish the season behind closed doors, with "Project Restart" aimed at minimising a predicted £1 billion loss if the campaign cannot be completed. It is understood top-flight clubs were told on Friday that the remaining matches of the season must be played at neutral venues. Further down the pyramid, where gate receipts make up a much higher percentage of clubs' income without lucrative TV deals, there are doubts over whether a new season can even start without fans being allowed to attend. The FA has also been affected by the cancellation of at least four England fixtures and the suspension of the FA Cup. Clarke said a "sensible" £75 million budget cut had been agreed. "In a worst-case scenario, this would be necessary for the next four years to offset a £300 million deficit," he added. "Clearly that will impact many of our plans as every area of the game will be touched and projects that we all value will be affected."

English FA bracing for long spell without fans

Even though the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t quite resolved in the United Kingdom, the Premier League chiefs are working on a brand new seven-week football festival if the halted season is resumed in coming weeks.&nbsp;

The seven-week football festival includes completion of the league and the FA Cup while easing concerns regarding piling of matches in a shorter timeframe.&nbsp;

The Premier League is aiming to resume the campaign on June 12, however, the&nbsp;seven-week football festival gives an extra-week to rework things if there are complications or confusions. But, given UEFA’s cut-off date to complete domestic season by August 2, the Premier League must begin by June 19, which is just under seven weeks away.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kevin-de-bruyne-believes-premier-league-will-play-to-conclusion-296517" hreflang="en">Kevin De Bruyne believes Premier League will play to conclusion</a>

However, a lot depends on government clearance and its easing of lockdown as they are set to announce fresh advisory on Thursday. Clubs may reluctantly accept they are running out of time if there is no reprieve in lockdown measures.&nbsp;

Friday’s meeting of the 20 shareholder clubs witnessed the debate being on medical conditions which will allow full training and behind-closed-door matches at neutral venues. While there are a few clubs opposing the idea of playing matches in neutral venues, the idea has majority votes from other clubs.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/influential-german-minister-backs-bundesliga-restart-this-month-296519" hreflang="en">Influential German minister backs Bundesliga restart this month</a>

The fresh timetable also suggests that Premier League needs just five weeks to complete the remaining 92 matches in the campaign. The plan suggests matches to be played on weekends and midweek.&nbsp;

However, there are major concerns over the extra risk of injury of players to play so many matches in a short period, especially after a three-month break since the last top-flight match in the Premier League.

Even though the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t quite resolved in the United Kingdom, the Premier League chiefs are working on a brand new seven-week football festival if the halted season is resumed in coming weeks.

Even though the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t quite resolved in the United Kingdom, the Premier League chiefs are working on a brand new seven-week football festival if the halted season is resumed in coming weeks. The seven-week football festival includes completion of the league and the FA Cup while easing concerns regarding piling of matches in a shorter timeframe. The Premier League is aiming to resume the campaign on June 12, however, the seven-week football festival gives an extra-week to rework things if there are complications or confusions. But, given UEFA’s cut-off date to complete domestic season by August 2, the Premier League must begin by June 19, which is just under seven weeks away. ALSO READ: Kevin De Bruyne believes Premier League will play to conclusion However, a lot depends on government clearance and its easing of lockdown as they are set to announce fresh advisory on Thursday. Clubs may reluctantly accept they are running out of time if there is no reprieve in lockdown measures. Friday’s meeting of the 20 shareholder clubs witnessed the debate being on medical conditions which will allow full training and behind-closed-door matches at neutral venues. While there are a few clubs opposing the idea of playing matches in neutral venues, the idea has majority votes from other clubs. ALSO READ: Influential German minister backs Bundesliga restart this month The fresh timetable also suggests that Premier League needs just five weeks to complete the remaining 92 matches in the campaign. The plan suggests matches to be played on weekends and midweek. However, there are major concerns over the extra risk of injury of players to play so many matches in a short period, especially after a three-month break since the last top-flight match in the Premier League.

Premier League working on 7-week football festival; aims to start on June 12

Premier League clubs were due to hold talks on Friday on how to finish the season as Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero admitted players were scared about being rushed back into action.&nbsp;

The English top-flight is facing an eye-watering estimated loss of around £1 billion ($1.25 billion) if no more football is played due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Playing the 92 remaining games behind closed doors would mitigate that loss, avoiding the need to repay hundreds of millions to broadcasters.

Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool are on the brink of their first league title for 30 years and there are many other issues to resolve, including Champions League qualification and relegation.

But the English top-flight faces huge logistical difficulties in its attempts to return to action, with Britain one of the countries worst-hit by COVID-19.

"Obviously, the majority of players are scared but above all because they have children, babies and family, they might live with their parents," Aguero told Spanish show El Chiringuito TV.

"If we return I am sure everyone will be tense because the minute one person starts to feel ill, it will be 'what's going on there?'."

Players would potentially face weeks away from their families, quarantined in hotels.

"I am hoping that it doesn't come that scenario," said Brighton striker Glenn Murray. "That is far-fetched, to spend eight weeks away from your family is quite a big ask."

Murray also labelled the idea that players could be asked to wear face masks during training sessions as "farcical".

<h2>- 'It only takes one case' -</h2>

Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville, who owns a stake in League Two side Salford City, is one of many who believes that economic factors are overriding safety considerations.

"How many people have to die playing football in the Premier League before it becomes unpalatable?" Neville told Sky Sports.

"If it was a non-economic decision there would be no football for months."

Just providing the tests necessary to get the ball rolling is a political headache.

According to reports, players, coaches and backroom staff would need to be tested two to three times a week.

"If football was to resume then testing will be key and an extra layer of training will be required," former Chelsea doctor Eva Carneiro told the BBC.

"It only takes one case for all of this to blow up."

Although those tests would be privately sourced and paid for, there is still unease at the prospect of young, healthy footballers being regularly tested when other members of society are not.

The Premier League can ill afford another PR disaster after several stumbles so far.

Liverpool, Tottenham and Bournemouth have backtracked on their plans to use government money to prop up the wages of non-playing staff due to public pressure.

There are also fears that football's return might provoke supporters to ignore social-distancing guidelines, even if games take place behind closed doors.

Liverpool mayor Joe Anderson&nbsp;believes "thousands of people" would turn up outside Anfield on the day the Reds end their 30-year wait to win the Premier League.

With so much at stake, the Premier League will do everything in its power not to have to follow the examples of leagues in France and the Netherlands in abandoning their seasons.

However, even the world's most powerful league may find the difficulties too great and have to brace itself for a devastating financial hit.

Premier League clubs were due to hold talks on Friday on how to finish the season as Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero admitted players were scared about being rushed back into action.

Premier League clubs were due to hold talks on Friday on how to finish the season as Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero admitted players were scared about being rushed back into action. The English top-flight is facing an eye-watering estimated loss of around £1 billion ($1.25 billion) if no more football is played due to the coronavirus pandemic. Playing the 92 remaining games behind closed doors would mitigate that loss, avoiding the need to repay hundreds of millions to broadcasters. Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool are on the brink of their first league title for 30 years and there are many other issues to resolve, including Champions League qualification and relegation. But the English top-flight faces huge logistical difficulties in its attempts to return to action, with Britain one of the countries worst-hit by COVID-19. "Obviously, the majority of players are scared but above all because they have children, babies and family, they might live with their parents," Aguero told Spanish show El Chiringuito TV. "If we return I am sure everyone will be tense because the minute one person starts to feel ill, it will be 'what's going on there?'." Players would potentially face weeks away from their families, quarantined in hotels. "I am hoping that it doesn't come that scenario," said Brighton striker Glenn Murray. "That is far-fetched, to spend eight weeks away from your family is quite a big ask." Murray also labelled the idea that players could be asked to wear face masks during training sessions as "farcical". - 'It only takes one case' - Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville, who owns a stake in League Two side Salford City, is one of many who believes that economic factors are overriding safety considerations. "How many people have to die playing football in the Premier League before it becomes unpalatable?" Neville told Sky Sports. "If it was a non-economic decision there would be no football for months." Just providing the tests necessary to get the ball rolling is a political headache. According to reports, players, coaches and backroom staff would need to be tested two to three times a week. "If football was to resume then testing will be key and an extra layer of training will be required," former Chelsea doctor Eva Carneiro told the BBC. "It only takes one case for all of this to blow up." Although those tests would be privately sourced and paid for, there is still unease at the prospect of young, healthy footballers being regularly tested when other members of society are not. The Premier League can ill afford another PR disaster after several stumbles so far. Liverpool, Tottenham and Bournemouth have backtracked on their plans to use government money to prop up the wages of non-playing staff due to public pressure. There are also fears that football's return might provoke supporters to ignore social-distancing guidelines, even if games take place behind closed doors. Liverpool mayor Joe Anderson believes "thousands of people" would turn up outside Anfield on the day the Reds end their 30-year wait to win the Premier League. With so much at stake, the Premier League will do everything in its power not to have to follow the examples of leagues in France and the Netherlands in abandoning their seasons. However, even the world's most powerful league may find the difficulties too great and have to brace itself for a devastating financial hit.

Premier League holds talks with 'Project Restart' under pressure

Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro wants football competitions in the country resume services soon despite the high number of COVID-19 cases in the country. Bolsonaro argued that players have "small chance of dying" from coronavirus due to their top physical fitness.&nbsp;

Bolsonaro, while likening the COVID-19 pandemic to “a little flu” has downplayed the risk brought by the coronavirus. Brazilian football leagues were suspended on March 15, whereas the Brazilian championship was scheduled to kick-start in the month of May. However, the commencement of the Brazilian championship looks unlikely given that the country has become a COVID-19 hotspot with more than 5,900 deaths. Medical experts and doctors are of the view that the pandemic is expected to peak.

Bolsonaro said that lots of people want football to return due to unemployment within the clubs.&nbsp;

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“There is a lot of people in soccer that are favourable to a return because unemployment is knocking on clubs’ doors too,” Bolsonaro said in an interview with Radio Guaiba. “Footballers, if infected with the virus, have a small chance of dying. That’s because of their physical state because they are athletes.”

The Brazilian president further said that the new health minister will issue advisory for matches to return behind closed doors but admitted that players might be reluctant to take to the pitch. Bolsonaro said that the Brazilian government is ready to help in the resumption of live football in the country.&nbsp;

“The decision to restart soccer is not mine, but we can help,” Bolsonaro said, adding he has spoken with Gremio coach Renato Portaluppi about the issue and was told that players are still worried about the virus.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-proposes-june-8-restart-with-clubs-to-resume-full-training-from-mid-may-295846" hreflang="en">Premier League proposes June 8 restart with clubs to resume full training from mid-May</a>

Brazil’s arch-rivals and neighbours, Argentina has already cancelled the remainder of 2019-20 season because of the COVID-19 pandemic, whereas France decided to conclude the season mid-way while declaring Paris Saint-Germain as winners of Ligue 1. The Dutch FA also cancelled the Eridiviese with no champions, promotion or relegation in place.&nbsp;

Furthermore, Brazil’s football confederation on Tuesday, in a statement, said that competitions should return “whenever it is possible, with safety and health care assurances for all those involved”.

On Thursday, the Brazil football confederation had said Bolsonaro’s health ministry suggestions of the measures need to be taken before resumption.

Whereas, a director at Sao Paulo FC, 1994 World Cup winner, Rai said that his club is against the resumption of play amid COVID-19 pandemic while calling for Bolsonaro’s resignation due to his “irresponsible” management during the crisis.&nbsp;

“We want to return in the proper time, in accord with recommendations, and gradually,” Raí told GloboEsporte. 
&nbsp;

Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro wants football competitions in the country resume services soon despite the high number of COVID-19 cases in the country. Bolsonaro argued that players have "small chance of dying" from coronavirus due to their top physical fitness.

Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro wants football competitions in the country resume services soon despite the high number of COVID-19 cases in the country. Bolsonaro argued that players have "small chance of dying" from coronavirus due to their top physical fitness. Bolsonaro, while likening the COVID-19 pandemic to “a little flu” has downplayed the risk brought by the coronavirus. Brazilian football leagues were suspended on March 15, whereas the Brazilian championship was scheduled to kick-start in the month of May. However, the commencement of the Brazilian championship looks unlikely given that the country has become a COVID-19 hotspot with more than 5,900 deaths. Medical experts and doctors are of the view that the pandemic is expected to peak. Bolsonaro said that lots of people want football to return due to unemployment within the clubs. ALSO READ: World Cup 2022 ambassador tests positive for coronavirus “There is a lot of people in soccer that are favourable to a return because unemployment is knocking on clubs’ doors too,” Bolsonaro said in an interview with Radio Guaiba. “Footballers, if infected with the virus, have a small chance of dying. That’s because of their physical state because they are athletes.” The Brazilian president further said that the new health minister will issue advisory for matches to return behind closed doors but admitted that players might be reluctant to take to the pitch. Bolsonaro said that the Brazilian government is ready to help in the resumption of live football in the country. “The decision to restart soccer is not mine, but we can help,” Bolsonaro said, adding he has spoken with Gremio coach Renato Portaluppi about the issue and was told that players are still worried about the virus. ALSO READ: Premier League proposes June 8 restart with clubs to resume full training from mid-May Brazil’s arch-rivals and neighbours, Argentina has already cancelled the remainder of 2019-20 season because of the COVID-19 pandemic, whereas France decided to conclude the season mid-way while declaring Paris Saint-Germain as winners of Ligue 1. The Dutch FA also cancelled the Eridiviese with no champions, promotion or relegation in place. Furthermore, Brazil’s football confederation on Tuesday, in a statement, said that competitions should return “whenever it is possible, with safety and health care assurances for all those involved”. On Thursday, the Brazil football confederation had said Bolsonaro’s health ministry suggestions of the measures need to be taken before resumption. Whereas, a director at Sao Paulo FC, 1994 World Cup winner, Rai said that his club is against the resumption of play amid COVID-19 pandemic while calling for Bolsonaro’s resignation due to his “irresponsible” management during the crisis. “We want to return in the proper time, in accord with recommendations, and gradually,” Raí told GloboEsporte.

Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro wants football to return, says players have ‘small chance of dying’ from COVID-19

An ambassador for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar has tested positive for the new coronavirus, the tournament's organisers said on Thursday.

Retired Qatari midfielder Adel Khamis, 54, "was unfortunately diagnosed with the novel coronavirus, COVID-19," the Supreme Committee for the organisation of the 2022 tournament wrote in a tweet.

"We wish a speedy to all those affected."

The number of confirmed infections among those involved in construction for 2022 facilities stands at eight across three stadium projects, but organisers have not given an updated toll since April 17.

Qatar has reported 13,409 cases of COVID-19, 1,372 recoveries and 10 deaths.

Work on Qatar's World Cup stadiums and mega-projects linked to the tournament has continued apace despite tough social distancing rules to stem the spread of coronavirus among the largely migrant workforce.

The supreme committee responsible for delivering the tournament said it "is reviewing the situation on a continuous basis and will take the necessary measures to protect the health and safety of all construction workers and direct staff".

Those measures "may include temporary suspension of work as and when required," it added in a statement.

Khamis is one of the public faces of the 2022 tournament along with fellow ambassadors Tim Cahill of Australia and Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez.

Construction has continued through the health crisis even as non-essential retail has been halted and mosques, parks and restaurants have closed.

An ambassador for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar has tested positive for the new coronavirus, the tournament's organisers said on Thursday. Retired Qatari midfielder Adel Khamis, 54, "was unfortunately diagnosed with the novel coronavirus, COVID-19," the Supreme Committee for the organisation of the 2022 tournament wrote in a tweet.

An ambassador for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar has tested positive for the new coronavirus, the tournament's organisers said on Thursday. Retired Qatari midfielder Adel Khamis, 54, "was unfortunately diagnosed with the novel coronavirus, COVID-19," the Supreme Committee for the organisation of the 2022 tournament wrote in a tweet. "We wish a speedy to all those affected." The number of confirmed infections among those involved in construction for 2022 facilities stands at eight across three stadium projects, but organisers have not given an updated toll since April 17. Qatar has reported 13,409 cases of COVID-19, 1,372 recoveries and 10 deaths. Work on Qatar's World Cup stadiums and mega-projects linked to the tournament has continued apace despite tough social distancing rules to stem the spread of coronavirus among the largely migrant workforce. The supreme committee responsible for delivering the tournament said it "is reviewing the situation on a continuous basis and will take the necessary measures to protect the health and safety of all construction workers and direct staff". Those measures "may include temporary suspension of work as and when required," it added in a statement. Khamis is one of the public faces of the 2022 tournament along with fellow ambassadors Tim Cahill of Australia and Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez. Construction has continued through the health crisis even as non-essential retail has been halted and mosques, parks and restaurants have closed.

World Cup 2022 ambassador tests positive for coronavirus

Under Goswami’s captaincy, the Indian football team won the coveted gold medal in the 1962 Asian Games while finishing runner-up in the Asian Cup in 1964. Goswami played club football for Mohun Bagan. He holds the distinction of playing for a single club, Mohun Bagan, throughout his club career despite numerous offers from other clubs including one reported offer from English side Tottenham Hotspur.

Goswami was suffering from underlying ailments with sugar, prostate and nerve problems for the last few months and breathed his last on Thursday (April 30).&nbsp;

"He suffered a cardiac arrest and died in the hospital at around 5pm, a family source told PTI.

<img alt="RIP Chuni Goswami" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60b95704-135c-4e31-9b72-42d4367c1fcb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EXCLUSIVE%20%283%29.jpg" />

For Calcutta University, he captained both the cricket and football teams in the same year. He was an all-rounder in cricket and featured in two Ranji Trophy finals for Bengal.&nbsp;

Goswami made his international debut for India in the year 1956 during team’s 1-0 win over the Chinese Olympic team and went on to represent India in 50 international matches including Olympics, Asian Games, Asia Cup and Merdeka Cup. However, he quit international football in 1964 at the age of just 27.&nbsp;

Goswami was known for his dribbling skills, splendid passing accuracy, fabulous ball control and ability to bamboozle defenders with body feints and those traits made him a superstar. His sense of positioning and nack of unleashing volleys from anywhere in the penalty box made him unique.&nbsp;

One of Goswami’s famous exploits on the cricket field came against Gary Sobers’ West Indies as he and Subroto Guha played their way to register the historic innings for combined Central and East Zone team in Indore. Goswami scalped a staggering eight wickets in that match against the Windies. There were calls to include him in the Indian Test side but the call never came.&nbsp;

In First-Class cricket, Goswami accumulated 1592 runs in 46 matches with one cnetury and seven haf-centuries under his belt. He further picked up 47 wickets at an average of 24.08.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
 
<o:p></o:p>

Under Goswami’s captaincy, the Indian football team won the coveted gold medal in the 1962 Asian Games while finishing runner-up in the Asian Cup in 1964. Goswami played club football for Mohun Bagan.

Under Goswami’s captaincy, the Indian football team won the coveted gold medal in the 1962 Asian Games while finishing runner-up in the Asian Cup in 1964. Goswami played club football for Mohun Bagan. He holds the distinction of playing for a single club, Mohun Bagan, throughout his club career despite numerous offers from other clubs including one reported offer from English side Tottenham Hotspur. Goswami was suffering from underlying ailments with sugar, prostate and nerve problems for the last few months and breathed his last on Thursday (April 30). "He suffered a cardiac arrest and died in the hospital at around 5pm, a family source told PTI. For Calcutta University, he captained both the cricket and football teams in the same year. He was an all-rounder in cricket and featured in two Ranji Trophy finals for Bengal. Goswami made his international debut for India in the year 1956 during team’s 1-0 win over the Chinese Olympic team and went on to represent India in 50 international matches including Olympics, Asian Games, Asia Cup and Merdeka Cup. However, he quit international football in 1964 at the age of just 27. Goswami was known for his dribbling skills, splendid passing accuracy, fabulous ball control and ability to bamboozle defenders with body feints and those traits made him a superstar. His sense of positioning and nack of unleashing volleys from anywhere in the penalty box made him unique. One of Goswami’s famous exploits on the cricket field came against Gary Sobers’ West Indies as he and Subroto Guha played their way to register the historic innings for combined Central and East Zone team in Indore. Goswami scalped a staggering eight wickets in that match against the Windies. There were calls to include him in the Indian Test side but the call never came. In First-Class cricket, Goswami accumulated 1592 runs in 46 matches with one cnetury and seven haf-centuries under his belt. He further picked up 47 wickets at an average of 24.08.

Indian football legend Chuni Goswami, 82, passes away

The Premier League is planning to return on June 8 with all the clubs receiving a proposed new schedule list to finish the halted season despite COVID-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in the UK. England’s top-flight league is aiming to return in just six weeks and would allow teams to fully train from May 18. However, players will have to cover their faces as a part of new rules to allow a safe return to full training. &nbsp;

League chiefs have already sent the schedule of matches to all 20 clubs ahead of a crucial meeting on Friday. And as per The Telegraph, the plan will be discussed on an individual basis with clubs in a bid to get the proposed scheduled approved by this week.

However, the plans are based on COVID-19 lockdown measures being eased with the next Government review due to take place on May 7. It is still unclear whether the restrictions will be relaxed for the Premier League to resume on their desired date.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-crowned-champions-of-france-despite-season-ending-prematurely-295831" hreflang="en">PSG crowned champions of France despite season ending prematurely</a>

Under the proposed plan, players will be tested for coronavirus over the weekend of May 8 and May 9 before returning to training in small groups. While some clubs including London giants Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur have already resumed training minimally, others are still following social distancing rules.&nbsp;

Football players could be restricted to train under quarantine and there have been talks of players coming to the training ground in their kits in a bid to avoid dressing rooms.

Mass testing will be available for all players, staff and media at training centres and stadiums as Premier League desperately forcing all remaining fixture into a six-week period.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/braithwaite-people-see-me-as-the-emergency-signing-but-i-deserve-to-be-at-barca-295798" hreflang="en">Braithwaite: People see me as the emergency signing but I deserve to be at Barca</a>

Meanwhile, UEFA want the Champions League final to be played on August 29 and would expect all the domestic leagues to end their respective campaigns prior to that. FA Cup is also set to restart.&nbsp;

A PL spokesperson said: “It is our objective to complete the 2019-20 season but all dates are tentative while the impact of Covid-19 develops.” 
&nbsp;

The Premier League is planning to return on June 8 with all the clubs receiving a proposed new schedule list to finish the halted season despite COVID-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in the UK.

The Premier League is planning to return on June 8 with all the clubs receiving a proposed new schedule list to finish the halted season despite COVID-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in the UK. England’s top-flight league is aiming to return in just six weeks and would allow teams to fully train from May 18. However, players will have to cover their faces as a part of new rules to allow a safe return to full training. League chiefs have already sent the schedule of matches to all 20 clubs ahead of a crucial meeting on Friday. And as per The Telegraph, the plan will be discussed on an individual basis with clubs in a bid to get the proposed scheduled approved by this week. However, the plans are based on COVID-19 lockdown measures being eased with the next Government review due to take place on May 7. It is still unclear whether the restrictions will be relaxed for the Premier League to resume on their desired date. ALSO READ: PSG crowned champions of France despite season ending prematurely Under the proposed plan, players will be tested for coronavirus over the weekend of May 8 and May 9 before returning to training in small groups. While some clubs including London giants Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur have already resumed training minimally, others are still following social distancing rules. Football players could be restricted to train under quarantine and there have been talks of players coming to the training ground in their kits in a bid to avoid dressing rooms. Mass testing will be available for all players, staff and media at training centres and stadiums as Premier League desperately forcing all remaining fixture into a six-week period. ALSO READ: Braithwaite: People see me as the emergency signing but I deserve to be at Barca Meanwhile, UEFA want the Champions League final to be played on August 29 and would expect all the domestic leagues to end their respective campaigns prior to that. FA Cup is also set to restart. A PL spokesperson said: “It is our objective to complete the 2019-20 season but all dates are tentative while the impact of Covid-19 develops.”

Premier League proposes June 8 restart with clubs to resume full training from mid-May

Paris Saint-Germain have been crowned champions of France despite the 2019/20 season getting called off due to COVID-19 pandemic. France’s Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 were not given permission to resume the halted season by the French government on Tuesday and now PSG have been awarded the titles courtesy their 12-point lead at the top of the table.&nbsp;

Even though it is not yet officially confirmed, but PSG and Marseille will be taking up automatic qualification spots for the UEFA Champions League 2020/21 season with Stade Rennes going into the qualification round of the UCL. Whereas in UEFA Europa League will see LOSC Lille and Reims getting a direct entry while OGC Nice will play the qualification round of the competition.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/braithwaite-people-see-me-as-the-emergency-signing-but-i-deserve-to-be-at-barca-295798" hreflang="en">Braithwaite: People see me as the emergency signing but I deserve to be at Barca</a>

Toulouse and Amiens have been reportedly relegated whereas Lorient and Lens were promoted to Ligue 1 from Ligue 2.

The 2019/20 season’s last round of fixtures were played on March 7 and 8 with PSG sitting 12 points clear of second-placed Marseille with a game in hand.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/league-by-league-guide-to-european-footballs-coronavirus-shutdown-295772" hreflang="en">League-by-league guide to European football's coronavirus shutdown</a>

Ligue 1’s current standings will be taken as final which means Lyon will play no European football for the first time since 1997.&nbsp; 
Meanwhile, PSG have won the Ligue 1 title in 1985/86, 1993/94, 2012/13, 2013/14, 2014/15, 2015/16, 2017/18, 2018/19, 2019/20.

Earlier, France Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced on Tuesday that French professional sports leagues including football and rugby won’t be able to resume action before September due to COVID-19 restrictions. 
&nbsp;

Paris Saint-Germain have been crowned champions of France despite the 2019/20 season getting called off due to COVID-19 pandemic. France’s Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 were not given permission to resume the halted season by the French government on Tuesday and now PSG have been awarded the titles courtesy their 12-point lead at the top of the table.

Paris Saint-Germain have been crowned champions of France despite the 2019/20 season getting called off due to COVID-19 pandemic. France’s Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 were not given permission to resume the halted season by the French government on Tuesday and now PSG have been awarded the titles courtesy their 12-point lead at the top of the table. Even though it is not yet officially confirmed, but PSG and Marseille will be taking up automatic qualification spots for the UEFA Champions League 2020/21 season with Stade Rennes going into the qualification round of the UCL. Whereas in UEFA Europa League will see LOSC Lille and Reims getting a direct entry while OGC Nice will play the qualification round of the competition. ALSO READ: Braithwaite: People see me as the emergency signing but I deserve to be at Barca Toulouse and Amiens have been reportedly relegated whereas Lorient and Lens were promoted to Ligue 1 from Ligue 2. The 2019/20 season’s last round of fixtures were played on March 7 and 8 with PSG sitting 12 points clear of second-placed Marseille with a game in hand. ALSO READ: League-by-league guide to European football's coronavirus shutdown Ligue 1’s current standings will be taken as final which means Lyon will play no European football for the first time since 1997. Meanwhile, PSG have won the Ligue 1 title in 1985/86, 1993/94, 2012/13, 2013/14, 2014/15, 2015/16, 2017/18, 2018/19, 2019/20. Earlier, France Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced on Tuesday that French professional sports leagues including football and rugby won’t be able to resume action before September due to COVID-19 restrictions.

PSG crowned champions of France despite season ending prematurely

Martin Braithwaite was Barcelona's emergency signing in February, a quick-fix to replace the injured Ousmane Dembele, but for him the move goes back 10 years to a broken leg and a notebook.

In his first meeting with the club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu and technical secretary Eric Abidal, Braithwaite was told one of the main reasons Barca were buying him was his mentality.

"I felt like they really knew me," Braithwaite says in an interview with AFP. "They knew how strong I am mentally and they said that was one of the things that made them go for me. They thought I was up for the test."&nbsp;

The toughness they saw owes much to when Braithwaite was 18 and playing for Esbjerg FB in Denmark. A broken leg prompted him to transform his attitude and start writing objectives down in a notebook.&nbsp;

"I was already a professional footballer but I wasn't respecting the job and I wasn't respecting the boy that had a dream to be here," Braithwaite says. "I took it for granted."&nbsp;

A year later, Braithwaite was in a hotel after joining Toulouse when he took out his notebook again.&nbsp;

"I came to a page of some objectives, maybe three or four years earlier, and I saw I had written Toulouse," Braithwaite says. "When I saw that, I thought, 'Wow, the power of the mind is really strong'.&nbsp;

"And when I was 27 or 28, I wrote I would play for one of the biggest clubs in the world. Now I'm here, where I said I would be 10 years ago."

<h2>- 'Embarrassed' -</h2>

Braithwaite draws upon his childhood too, when a hip condition called Legg-Calve-Perthes left him in a wheelchair between the age of five and seven.&nbsp;

"I remember I felt sad. I felt embarrassed," he says. "I was just a kid who wanted to play. I remember the look people would give me, like I was different.&nbsp;

"Of course, I came through that and look where I am today but at the same time it makes me humble and grateful for the things I have."&nbsp;

For some, Barcelona buying Braithwaite was a result of opportunism, through the use of an obscure La Liga rule, and caused by bad planning, after a chaotic transfer window left the squad short.

But Braithwaite sees it as hard work paying off. Even during lockdown, he adds extra training to the club programme and watches videos of his teammates, learning where they move, run and pass, to speed up his adaptation.

"People see me as the emergency signing because that was how I got here," he says. "What people don't know is that for so many years I've put in my mind that I want to be here. It's not a coincidence.

"I'm at Barca, I signed for four years and I see my future here."

But his departure from Leganes left a bitter taste, even if few blamed Braithwaite for completing a dream move, not even Leganes, who were "fantastic, they understood".

<h2>- Maybe the rule should be changed' -</h2>

The rule that allowed Barcelona to sign a player outside the transfer window due to injuries meant Leganes, in the relegation zone, were unable to replace their top scorer, who joined the league leaders.

"Yeah, maybe the rule should be changed," Braithwaite said. "I understand because Leganes lost one of their main players, they can't get a replacement and they are in a difficult situation. I completely understand that."

Braithwaite played three games for his new team before the coronavirus caused La Liga to be suspended and he impressed, his willingness to run in behind and strike combinations with Lionel Messi quickly earning the praise of Barcelona fans.

"It's not difficult when you play with Messi. You just have to run and the ball is at your feet," he says.

But off the pitch, Barca have been consumed by political controversies, which have continued even as the games have stopped. Last month, the players' distrust of the board resurfaced around negotiations over wage cuts.

"Honestly inside the club there is a really good atmosphere," Braithwaite says. "We're not focusing on what is happening on the outside, we just want to play."&nbsp;

The season restarting is complex too, with La Liga's current plan to reintroduce training gradually before resuming games in June behind closed doors, which could last until next year.

"It's out of my control," says Braithwaite. "If the people in charge feel there is no risk in going back, I trust them. This is bigger than football right now, it's about people's health. We have to move cautiously."

Braithwaite's dedication means he has a better chance than most of hitting the ground running. But even he admits playing for Barcelona has occasionally caused his ice-cool demeanour to slip.

"When I'm playing and training, I'm doing what I always do," he says. "But sometimes at the start I would catch myself in the mirror at the training ground. I would see the badge on my shirt and I would think, 'Damn, I'm really here'."

Martin Braithwaite was Barcelona's emergency signing in February, a quick-fix to replace the injured Ousmane Dembele, but for him the move goes back 10 years to a broken leg and a notebook.

Martin Braithwaite was Barcelona's emergency signing in February, a quick-fix to replace the injured Ousmane Dembele, but for him the move goes back 10 years to a broken leg and a notebook. In his first meeting with the club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu and technical secretary Eric Abidal, Braithwaite was told one of the main reasons Barca were buying him was his mentality. "I felt like they really knew me," Braithwaite says in an interview with AFP. "They knew how strong I am mentally and they said that was one of the things that made them go for me. They thought I was up for the test." The toughness they saw owes much to when Braithwaite was 18 and playing for Esbjerg FB in Denmark. A broken leg prompted him to transform his attitude and start writing objectives down in a notebook. "I was already a professional footballer but I wasn't respecting the job and I wasn't respecting the boy that had a dream to be here," Braithwaite says. "I took it for granted." A year later, Braithwaite was in a hotel after joining Toulouse when he took out his notebook again. "I came to a page of some objectives, maybe three or four years earlier, and I saw I had written Toulouse," Braithwaite says. "When I saw that, I thought, 'Wow, the power of the mind is really strong'. "And when I was 27 or 28, I wrote I would play for one of the biggest clubs in the world. Now I'm here, where I said I would be 10 years ago." - 'Embarrassed' - Braithwaite draws upon his childhood too, when a hip condition called Legg-Calve-Perthes left him in a wheelchair between the age of five and seven. "I remember I felt sad. I felt embarrassed," he says. "I was just a kid who wanted to play. I remember the look people would give me, like I was different. "Of course, I came through that and look where I am today but at the same time it makes me humble and grateful for the things I have." For some, Barcelona buying Braithwaite was a result of opportunism, through the use of an obscure La Liga rule, and caused by bad planning, after a chaotic transfer window left the squad short. But Braithwaite sees it as hard work paying off. Even during lockdown, he adds extra training to the club programme and watches videos of his teammates, learning where they move, run and pass, to speed up his adaptation. "People see me as the emergency signing because that was how I got here," he says. "What people don't know is that for so many years I've put in my mind that I want to be here. It's not a coincidence. "I'm at Barca, I signed for four years and I see my future here." But his departure from Leganes left a bitter taste, even if few blamed Braithwaite for completing a dream move, not even Leganes, who were "fantastic, they understood". - Maybe the rule should be changed' - The rule that allowed Barcelona to sign a player outside the transfer window due to injuries meant Leganes, in the relegation zone, were unable to replace their top scorer, who joined the league leaders. "Yeah, maybe the rule should be changed," Braithwaite said. "I understand because Leganes lost one of their main players, they can't get a replacement and they are in a difficult situation. I completely understand that." Braithwaite played three games for his new team before the coronavirus caused La Liga to be suspended and he impressed, his willingness to run in behind and strike combinations with Lionel Messi quickly earning the praise of Barcelona fans. "It's not difficult when you play with Messi. You just have to run and the ball is at your feet," he says. But off the pitch, Barca have been consumed by political controversies, which have continued even as the games have stopped. Last month, the players' distrust of the board resurfaced around negotiations over wage cuts. "Honestly inside the club there is a really good atmosphere," Braithwaite says. "We're not focusing on what is happening on the outside, we just want to play." The season restarting is complex too, with La Liga's current plan to reintroduce training gradually before resuming games in June behind closed doors, which could last until next year. "It's out of my control," says Braithwaite. "If the people in charge feel there is no risk in going back, I trust them. This is bigger than football right now, it's about people's health. We have to move cautiously." Braithwaite's dedication means he has a better chance than most of hitting the ground running. But even he admits playing for Barcelona has occasionally caused his ice-cool demeanour to slip. "When I'm playing and training, I'm doing what I always do," he says. "But sometimes at the start I would catch myself in the mirror at the training ground. I would see the badge on my shirt and I would think, 'Damn, I'm really here'."

Braithwaite: People see me as the emergency signing but I deserve to be at Barca

Football leagues across Europe have been suspended since March due to the coronavirus pandemic which has claimed over 130,000 lives throughout the continent.

Lockdown restrictions are in effect worldwide although some countries are cautiously beginning to ease stay-at-home orders.

AFP Sport looks at what we know about the plans for Europe's top leagues:

<h2>ENGLAND</h2>

Premier League chiefs are targeting a return in June and several clubs have reopened their training grounds this week as they work on "Project Restart".

The English top flight is understood to be aiming to run a huge testing operation to keep footballers safe, with reports of 26,000 tests being lined up for players and staff.

Teams could reportedly return to full training mid-May and resume matches on June 8, with the plans to be discussed at a meeting of stakeholders on Friday.

The clubs remain committed to ending the 2019-20 campaign and there are compelling financial and legal reasons to play the remaining 92 games. A failure to finish the season is forecast to cost Premier League clubs an estimated £1 billion ($1.2 billion).

Matches would almost certainly be played behind closed doors and clubs have reportedly been told that only approved stadiums could be used, with higher health certification than normal.

However, the Professional Footballers' Association have raised the issue of players not wanting to be put at risk by returning too soon.

<h2>SPAIN</h2>

La Liga players will be able to restart basic training from May 4, based on the Spanish government's plans announced Tuesday to transition out of a strict virus lockdown.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the decision was the first move in lifting lockdown measures which will be done in four stages across two months.

Only in later stages of the process will full training sessions be able to take place.&nbsp;

League president Javier Tebas is hopeful the league can begin again in mid-June. He has said "it is not an option" to cancel the season given the economic fallout, estimating it would cost clubs around a billion euros.

"I do not understand why there would more danger in playing football behind closed doors, with all precautionary measures" than any other line of work, Tebas said.

"In Spain, football is an important economic driver that we need to reactivate like many others. We continue to focus on this reactivation, in a responsible manner and adhering to health recommendations, as soon as possible."

<h2>ITALY</h2>

Italy's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora has warned Serie A could be called off, with the league facing "an increasingly narrow path" for its resumption.

The government has allowed individual athletes to resume training next week but team sports, including football, must wait until at least May 18. The move was slammed by Italy's footballers' union "as discriminatory and even illogical".

All 20 top-flight clubs have voted unanimously to complete the league season, but the final decision rests with the government.

An emergency meeting of the clubs will be held on Friday. Spadafora suggested "the majority could ask us to suspend this season and prepare for the next championship as best possible".

Italian football chiefs have already pushed back the end of the Serie A season from June 30 to August 2. The goal of a return to competition in early June has become impracticable, shifting the date towards June 10-14.

Another solution being touted would be a play-off to allocate the Scudetto and qualifying places for European competition and determine relegation.

<h2>GERMANY</h2>

The Bundesliga could resume by "the middle or end of May" according to the country's sports ministers, although it still requires the green light from Angela Merkel's government.

Chancellor Merkel will meet state leaders in Berlin on Thursday, when it is hoped the league will be granted permission to resume play from May 16.

Clubs returned to training at the start of the month while adhering to social distancing guidelines and games would be played behind closed doors, with large-scale public events banned in Germany until August 31.

Borussia Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke warned last weekend that "the entire Bundesliga will go down" unless the league restarts.

Germany's top clubs are desperate for the league season to be completed by June 30 in order to claim an instalment of television money worth 300 million euros ($325 million).

A primary sticking point is the testing of players, which critics claim will be an extra burden on Germany's health system.

<h2>FRANCE</h2>

The Ligue 1 season appears to be over after French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said professional football cannot resume until September.

The French league will meet on Thursday "to analyse the sporting and economic consequences" of the government announcement.&nbsp;

Assuming no more matches take place, the league must decide how to end the season. It is understood that France will not follow the lead of the Netherlands, who decided to void their season with no champion, relegation or promotion.

Final placings could be attributed based on the standings as they are, or using an average of points per game.

Sports daily L'Equipe calculates that the top two divisions could now miss out on 243 million euros ($264 million) from broadcasters Canal Plus and beIN Sports, plus 35 million euros for international rights. That is on top of lost gate receipts and sponsorship.

<h2>ELSEWHERE</h2>

The Dutch FA put an end to the season last week, as the Eredivisie became the first top European league called off due to the health crisis. No title will be awarded and there will be no relegation or promotion.

The Belgian Pro League is expected to take a similar decision next week, confirming the season over with Club Brugge in line to be declared champions with 11 games unplayed.&nbsp;

The fate of the Scottish Premiership is up in the air. A controversial vote ended the seasons in the lower three divisions but there are hopes the top flight could restart behind closed doors if given government approval.

Football leagues across Europe have been suspended since March due to the coronavirus pandemic which has claimed over 130,000 lives throughout the continent. Lockdown restrictions are in effect worldwide although some countries are cautiously beginning to ease stay-at-home orders.

Football leagues across Europe have been suspended since March due to the coronavirus pandemic which has claimed over 130,000 lives throughout the continent. Lockdown restrictions are in effect worldwide although some countries are cautiously beginning to ease stay-at-home orders. AFP Sport looks at what we know about the plans for Europe's top leagues: ENGLAND Premier League chiefs are targeting a return in June and several clubs have reopened their training grounds this week as they work on "Project Restart". The English top flight is understood to be aiming to run a huge testing operation to keep footballers safe, with reports of 26,000 tests being lined up for players and staff. Teams could reportedly return to full training mid-May and resume matches on June 8, with the plans to be discussed at a meeting of stakeholders on Friday. The clubs remain committed to ending the 2019-20 campaign and there are compelling financial and legal reasons to play the remaining 92 games. A failure to finish the season is forecast to cost Premier League clubs an estimated £1 billion ($1.2 billion). Matches would almost certainly be played behind closed doors and clubs have reportedly been told that only approved stadiums could be used, with higher health certification than normal. However, the Professional Footballers' Association have raised the issue of players not wanting to be put at risk by returning too soon. SPAIN La Liga players will be able to restart basic training from May 4, based on the Spanish government's plans announced Tuesday to transition out of a strict virus lockdown. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the decision was the first move in lifting lockdown measures which will be done in four stages across two months. Only in later stages of the process will full training sessions be able to take place. League president Javier Tebas is hopeful the league can begin again in mid-June. He has said "it is not an option" to cancel the season given the economic fallout, estimating it would cost clubs around a billion euros. "I do not understand why there would more danger in playing football behind closed doors, with all precautionary measures" than any other line of work, Tebas said. "In Spain, football is an important economic driver that we need to reactivate like many others. We continue to focus on this reactivation, in a responsible manner and adhering to health recommendations, as soon as possible." ITALY Italy's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora has warned Serie A could be called off, with the league facing "an increasingly narrow path" for its resumption. The government has allowed individual athletes to resume training next week but team sports, including football, must wait until at least May 18. The move was slammed by Italy's footballers' union "as discriminatory and even illogical". All 20 top-flight clubs have voted unanimously to complete the league season, but the final decision rests with the government. An emergency meeting of the clubs will be held on Friday. Spadafora suggested "the majority could ask us to suspend this season and prepare for the next championship as best possible". Italian football chiefs have already pushed back the end of the Serie A season from June 30 to August 2. The goal of a return to competition in early June has become impracticable, shifting the date towards June 10-14. Another solution being touted would be a play-off to allocate the Scudetto and qualifying places for European competition and determine relegation. GERMANY The Bundesliga could resume by "the middle or end of May" according to the country's sports ministers, although it still requires the green light from Angela Merkel's government. Chancellor Merkel will meet state leaders in Berlin on Thursday, when it is hoped the league will be granted permission to resume play from May 16. Clubs returned to training at the start of the month while adhering to social distancing guidelines and games would be played behind closed doors, with large-scale public events banned in Germany until August 31. Borussia Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke warned last weekend that "the entire Bundesliga will go down" unless the league restarts. Germany's top clubs are desperate for the league season to be completed by June 30 in order to claim an instalment of television money worth 300 million euros ($325 million). A primary sticking point is the testing of players, which critics claim will be an extra burden on Germany's health system. FRANCE The Ligue 1 season appears to be over after French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said professional football cannot resume until September. The French league will meet on Thursday "to analyse the sporting and economic consequences" of the government announcement. Assuming no more matches take place, the league must decide how to end the season. It is understood that France will not follow the lead of the Netherlands, who decided to void their season with no champion, relegation or promotion. Final placings could be attributed based on the standings as they are, or using an average of points per game. Sports daily L'Equipe calculates that the top two divisions could now miss out on 243 million euros ($264 million) from broadcasters Canal Plus and beIN Sports, plus 35 million euros for international rights. That is on top of lost gate receipts and sponsorship. ELSEWHERE The Dutch FA put an end to the season last week, as the Eredivisie became the first top European league called off due to the health crisis. No title will be awarded and there will be no relegation or promotion. The Belgian Pro League is expected to take a similar decision next week, confirming the season over with Club Brugge in line to be declared champions with 11 games unplayed. The fate of the Scottish Premiership is up in the air. A controversial vote ended the seasons in the lower three divisions but there are hopes the top flight could restart behind closed doors if given government approval.

League-by-league guide to European football's coronavirus shutdown

A Swiss court on Tuesday scheduled a September trial date for Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and FIFA's former secretary general Jerome Valcke, in an alleged corruption case.

The case, involving the pair and a third, unnamed man, relates to alleged criminal mismanagement, incitement to criminal mismanagement, falsifying documents and corruption, the Federal Criminal Court said on its website.

The court is based in the southeastern Swiss city of Bellinzona.

When filing the indictment in February, the office of Switzerland's attorney general&nbsp;(OAG) said the men faced charges linked "with the award of media rights to various World Cup and FIFA Confederations Cup tournaments."

After the date was set on Tuesday, Al-Khelaifi's lawyers issued a statement insisting the case was "completely unfounded", and said the allegation against their client was "manifestly artificial."

They also indicated that they had requested the recusal of the prosecutors in the case and had filed a criminal complaint related to leaks, "making it uncertain whether the case will proceed at all."

Al-Khelaifi, who is also the boss of Qatari television channel BeIN Sports, had been suspected of giving inappropriate gifts to Valcke, formerly ex-FIFA boss Sepp Blatter's right-hand man, in order to secure broadcast rights to prestigious events, including the World Cup.

But in February, the OAG said it dropped "a criminal complaint of bribery" against Al-Khelaifi linked to the award of media rights for World Cup tournaments in 2026 and 2030 and other events, after FIFA withdrew the complaint it was based on, following an "amicable agreement" with Al-Khelaifi.

Prosecutors however accused him of inciting the non-reporting of a gift.

The indictment in February also accused the third man, described as "a businessman in the sports rights sector", of bribery over a 1.25-million-euro ($1.35 million) payment to Valcke's company Sportunited LLC.

Valcke meanwhile stands accused of exploiting his position at FIFA between 2013 and 2015 to influence the award of media rights for Italy and Greece for various World Cup and other tournaments scheduled between 2018 and 2030 "in order to favour media partners that he preferred," in exchange for the payments from the unnamed businessman, according to that indictment.

He has also been charged with falsifying documents, after Sportsunited's balance sheet listed those payments as loans.

Switzerland's judiciary last week rejected a request from Al-Khelaifi for three federal prosecutors in the case to be recused, over claims that during a hearing on December 6, 2019, he had not been given enough time to address all of the aspects of the case he deemed were necessary.

Valcke, who worked with Blatter from 2003 to 2015, has already been banned from football for 10 years for failing to cooperate with investigators over the resale of World Cup tickets and inflated expenses.

A Swiss court on Tuesday scheduled a September trial date for Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and FIFA's former secretary general Jerome Valcke, in an alleged corruption case.

A Swiss court on Tuesday scheduled a September trial date for Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and FIFA's former secretary general Jerome Valcke, in an alleged corruption case. The case, involving the pair and a third, unnamed man, relates to alleged criminal mismanagement, incitement to criminal mismanagement, falsifying documents and corruption, the Federal Criminal Court said on its website. The court is based in the southeastern Swiss city of Bellinzona. When filing the indictment in February, the office of Switzerland's attorney general (OAG) said the men faced charges linked "with the award of media rights to various World Cup and FIFA Confederations Cup tournaments." After the date was set on Tuesday, Al-Khelaifi's lawyers issued a statement insisting the case was "completely unfounded", and said the allegation against their client was "manifestly artificial." They also indicated that they had requested the recusal of the prosecutors in the case and had filed a criminal complaint related to leaks, "making it uncertain whether the case will proceed at all." Al-Khelaifi, who is also the boss of Qatari television channel BeIN Sports, had been suspected of giving inappropriate gifts to Valcke, formerly ex-FIFA boss Sepp Blatter's right-hand man, in order to secure broadcast rights to prestigious events, including the World Cup. But in February, the OAG said it dropped "a criminal complaint of bribery" against Al-Khelaifi linked to the award of media rights for World Cup tournaments in 2026 and 2030 and other events, after FIFA withdrew the complaint it was based on, following an "amicable agreement" with Al-Khelaifi. Prosecutors however accused him of inciting the non-reporting of a gift. The indictment in February also accused the third man, described as "a businessman in the sports rights sector", of bribery over a 1.25-million-euro ($1.35 million) payment to Valcke's company Sportunited LLC. Valcke meanwhile stands accused of exploiting his position at FIFA between 2013 and 2015 to influence the award of media rights for Italy and Greece for various World Cup and other tournaments scheduled between 2018 and 2030 "in order to favour media partners that he preferred," in exchange for the payments from the unnamed businessman, according to that indictment. He has also been charged with falsifying documents, after Sportsunited's balance sheet listed those payments as loans. Switzerland's judiciary last week rejected a request from Al-Khelaifi for three federal prosecutors in the case to be recused, over claims that during a hearing on December 6, 2019, he had not been given enough time to address all of the aspects of the case he deemed were necessary. Valcke, who worked with Blatter from 2003 to 2015, has already been banned from football for 10 years for failing to cooperate with investigators over the resale of World Cup tickets and inflated expenses.

Swiss set trial date for PSG chief, ex-FIFA no.2

Italian Sports Minister Vincenzo Spadafora on Wednesday said that Serie A, country’s top-flight football league, is unlikely to resume this season due to COVID-19 pandemic. On March 9, Italy had suspended Serie A as a part of strict lockdown phase to curb the spread of COVID-19 that has seen over 200,000 confirmed cases with more than 27,000 deaths in the country, the second-highest tally in the entire world after the United States.&nbsp;

Spadafora said that if he was one of the presidents of Serie A clubs then he would be focusing on the next season rather than spending time thinking about the halted campaign.

"I see an increasingly narrow path for the resumption of the Serie A... If I were one of the presidents (of the clubs) I would focus on the next season," Spadafora told an Italian broadcaster.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-many-have-to-die-gary-neville-voices-fears-over-premier-league-plans-295599" hreflang="en">'How many have to die?': Gary Neville voices fears over Premier League plans</a>

The Netherlands and France are two European countries to have ended their football campaigns due to the coronavirus pandemic, whereas, the Premier League, German Bundesliga and Serie A are among those who want to finish the 2019/20 season.&nbsp;

"These decisions (in France and in the Netherlands) could push Italy to follow this line, which would become a European line," Spadafora said while adding that he thought a majority of Serie A clubs may soon ask to cancel the league.&nbsp;

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte had earlier announced that lockdown will be eased from May 4 with sports team given the allowance to train from May 18.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mauricio-pochettino-newcastle-uniteds-top-target-to-take-over-managerial-duties-295589" hreflang="en">Mauricio Pochettino Newcastle United's top target to take over managerial duties</a>

While the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has chalked out a medical protocol for training, Spadafora has clarified that government’s scientific experts didn't deem it sufficient.&nbsp;

"If the championship should ever resume, it will certainly be behind closed doors," Spadafora said.

As of now, there are 12 more rounds of matches to be played in Serie A with a number of games from incompleted rounds. As things stand, Juventus are one point clear of Lazio at the top of the table.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Italian Sports Minister Vincenzo Spadafora on Wednesday said that Serie A, country’s top-flight football league, is unlikely to resume this season due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Italian Sports Minister Vincenzo Spadafora on Wednesday said that Serie A, country’s top-flight football league, is unlikely to resume this season due to COVID-19 pandemic. On March 9, Italy had suspended Serie A as a part of strict lockdown phase to curb the spread of COVID-19 that has seen over 200,000 confirmed cases with more than 27,000 deaths in the country, the second-highest tally in the entire world after the United States. Spadafora said that if he was one of the presidents of Serie A clubs then he would be focusing on the next season rather than spending time thinking about the halted campaign. "I see an increasingly narrow path for the resumption of the Serie A... If I were one of the presidents (of the clubs) I would focus on the next season," Spadafora told an Italian broadcaster. ALSO READ: 'How many have to die?': Gary Neville voices fears over Premier League plans The Netherlands and France are two European countries to have ended their football campaigns due to the coronavirus pandemic, whereas, the Premier League, German Bundesliga and Serie A are among those who want to finish the 2019/20 season. "These decisions (in France and in the Netherlands) could push Italy to follow this line, which would become a European line," Spadafora said while adding that he thought a majority of Serie A clubs may soon ask to cancel the league. Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte had earlier announced that lockdown will be eased from May 4 with sports team given the allowance to train from May 18. ALSO READ: Mauricio Pochettino Newcastle United's top target to take over managerial duties While the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has chalked out a medical protocol for training, Spadafora has clarified that government’s scientific experts didn't deem it sufficient. "If the championship should ever resume, it will certainly be behind closed doors," Spadafora said. As of now, there are 12 more rounds of matches to be played in Serie A with a number of games from incompleted rounds. As things stand, Juventus are one point clear of Lazio at the top of the table.

Serie A could follow Ligue 1, Eredivisie by cancelling 2019-20 season: Italy's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora

Gary Neville fears Premier League players' lives will be put at risk if football is rushed back too soon after the coronavirus-enforced lockdown in Britain.

Premier League chiefs are aiming for a return to action in June and several clubs opened their training grounds to players this week as they work on "Project Restart".

The English top flight is understood to be aiming to run a huge testing operation to keep footballers safe, with reports of 26,000 tests being lined up for players and staff.

But FIFA's medical chief Michel D'Hooghe said on Tuesday that football should not be played until September and former Manchester United defender Neville is worried that Premier League stars will be put in danger by the rush to return.

"The FIFA medical officer said that football should not take place before September. I think if it was a non-economic decision there would be no football for months," Neville told the Sky Sports Football Show on Wednesday.

"People are now assessing risk. How many people have to die playing football in the Premier League before it becomes unpalatable? One? One player? One member of staff goes into intensive care? What risk do we have to take? The discussion is purely economic."

Neville voiced his particular concerns over the risk to players with existing medical conditions.

"If health comes first, there is only one outcome at this moment in time. How many players have got asthma? How many players have diabetes?

"Have they assessed all of these things and are they willing to put those people at risk?"

The UK is among the worst-hit countries in the global COVID-19 pandemic, with more than 21,000 deaths so far.

The country is on lockdown until at least May 7, but government officials have spoken in positive terms about a potential return for football if the virus is under control.

<h2>- 'No football for months' -</h2>

Germany's sports ministers have said the Bundesliga could return next month but Dutch football chiefs have called an end to the Eredivisie season and the Belgian campaign is in the balance.

French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said football would not return in his country until at least September.

In the Premier League, full training is reportedly slated for mid-May, with the plan to be discussed at a meeting of stakeholders on Friday.

However, Neville is concerned that the Premier League's desire to conclude the campaign is being driven by financial motives, with the English top flight facing a huge hit if the 92 remaining fixtures are not played.

The former England international said if it were a non-economic decision there would be no football for months but he acknowledged that players at lower levels would want to play because the alternative was "bad".

"(A total of) 1,400 players are out of contract in three months so they'll need football to resume so their livelihoods can continue," he said.

"There's huge economic loss. It clouds people's minds in terms of the risk that they're willing to take."&nbsp;

Gary Neville fears Premier League players' lives will be put at risk if football is rushed back too soon after the coronavirus-enforced lockdown in Britain. Premier League chiefs are aiming for a return to action in June and several clubs opened their training grounds to players this week as they work on "Project Restart".

Gary Neville fears Premier League players' lives will be put at risk if football is rushed back too soon after the coronavirus-enforced lockdown in Britain. Premier League chiefs are aiming for a return to action in June and several clubs opened their training grounds to players this week as they work on "Project Restart". The English top flight is understood to be aiming to run a huge testing operation to keep footballers safe, with reports of 26,000 tests being lined up for players and staff. But FIFA's medical chief Michel D'Hooghe said on Tuesday that football should not be played until September and former Manchester United defender Neville is worried that Premier League stars will be put in danger by the rush to return. "The FIFA medical officer said that football should not take place before September. I think if it was a non-economic decision there would be no football for months," Neville told the Sky Sports Football Show on Wednesday. "People are now assessing risk. How many people have to die playing football in the Premier League before it becomes unpalatable? One? One player? One member of staff goes into intensive care? What risk do we have to take? The discussion is purely economic." Neville voiced his particular concerns over the risk to players with existing medical conditions. "If health comes first, there is only one outcome at this moment in time. How many players have got asthma? How many players have diabetes? "Have they assessed all of these things and are they willing to put those people at risk?" The UK is among the worst-hit countries in the global COVID-19 pandemic, with more than 21,000 deaths so far. The country is on lockdown until at least May 7, but government officials have spoken in positive terms about a potential return for football if the virus is under control. - 'No football for months' - Germany's sports ministers have said the Bundesliga could return next month but Dutch football chiefs have called an end to the Eredivisie season and the Belgian campaign is in the balance. French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said football would not return in his country until at least September. In the Premier League, full training is reportedly slated for mid-May, with the plan to be discussed at a meeting of stakeholders on Friday. However, Neville is concerned that the Premier League's desire to conclude the campaign is being driven by financial motives, with the English top flight facing a huge hit if the 92 remaining fixtures are not played. The former England international said if it were a non-economic decision there would be no football for months but he acknowledged that players at lower levels would want to play because the alternative was "bad". "(A total of) 1,400 players are out of contract in three months so they'll need football to resume so their livelihoods can continue," he said. "There's huge economic loss. It clouds people's minds in terms of the risk that they're willing to take."

'How many have to die?': Gary Neville voices fears over Premier League plans

Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino is Newcastle United’s prospective new owners’ first choice to take over the charge at St James’s Park next season. The Saudi-backed consortium is willing to pay him a whopping £19m a year to take charge of the club, which will make Pocchettino the second-highest paid manager in the Premier League behind Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola.&nbsp;

Pochettino who lost his job at Tottenham Hostpur in November 2019 is keen on a return to Premier League and reportedly, is interested in the project. Current Newcastle United manager Steve Bruce will continue the charge until the end of the current season.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-super-bowl-winner-to-medical-doctor-laurent-duvernay-tardif-joins-coronavirus-frontline-295525" hreflang="en">From Super Bowl winner to medical doctor! Laurent Duvernay-Tardif joins coronavirus frontline</a>

No final decision on the matter is expected before Premier League’s decision to allow the £300m takeover Newcastle United Saudi-backed consortium from Mike Ashley.

Reportedly, Newcastle’s prospective owners have been left impressed by Pochettino’s previous work with Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton. They reckon Pochettino will be the perfect man to convert Newcastle United into one of Europe’s top clubs in the next five years.&nbsp;

Second on the wish list it, former Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez, who is currently managing China’s Dalian Yifang with a £12m-a-year after tax contract in China.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/swiss-set-trial-date-for-psg-chief-ex-fifa-no2-295476" hreflang="en">Swiss set trial date for PSG chief, ex-FIFA no.2</a>

Interestingly, Pochettino and his backroom staff continue to being paid his £8.5m a year (gross) wages by Tottenham Hotspur despite getting sacked in November, as per reports.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, there have been calls for the British government to block the Saudi-backed consortium’s £300m takeover of Newcastle United.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino is Newcastle United’s prospective new owners’ first choice to take over the charge at St James’s Park next season.

Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino is Newcastle United’s prospective new owners’ first choice to take over the charge at St James’s Park next season. The Saudi-backed consortium is willing to pay him a whopping £19m a year to take charge of the club, which will make Pocchettino the second-highest paid manager in the Premier League behind Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola. Pochettino who lost his job at Tottenham Hostpur in November 2019 is keen on a return to Premier League and reportedly, is interested in the project. Current Newcastle United manager Steve Bruce will continue the charge until the end of the current season. ALSO READ: From Super Bowl winner to medical doctor! Laurent Duvernay-Tardif joins coronavirus frontline No final decision on the matter is expected before Premier League’s decision to allow the £300m takeover Newcastle United Saudi-backed consortium from Mike Ashley. Reportedly, Newcastle’s prospective owners have been left impressed by Pochettino’s previous work with Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton. They reckon Pochettino will be the perfect man to convert Newcastle United into one of Europe’s top clubs in the next five years. Second on the wish list it, former Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez, who is currently managing China’s Dalian Yifang with a £12m-a-year after tax contract in China. ALSO READ: Swiss set trial date for PSG chief, ex-FIFA no.2 Interestingly, Pochettino and his backroom staff continue to being paid his £8.5m a year (gross) wages by Tottenham Hotspur despite getting sacked in November, as per reports. Meanwhile, there have been calls for the British government to block the Saudi-backed consortium’s £300m takeover of Newcastle United.

Mauricio Pochettino Newcastle United's top target to take over managerial duties

French professional sports leagues including football and rugby won’t be able to resume action before September due to COVID-19 restrictions, France Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Philippe took the call as a part of a gradual plan to lift the lockdown restrictions in France as he said no event, where a crowd of more than 5,000 people gather, would be allowed until at least September.

The announcement by French PM effectively means the Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 season, which was halted by COVID-19 outbreak now stand cancelled.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-eases-lockdown-restrictions-shops-markets-to-reopen-on-may-11-295371">France eases lockdown restrictions; shops, markets to reopen on May 11</a>

Earlier, UEFA had set a deadline of August 2 for domestic leagues to be completed and French Professional Football League (LFP) had announced plans for Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 to resume on June 17.

While the league and some clubs may want to resume training after May 11, the French government doesn’t see it as an absolute priority and have decided to put a ban on professional sporting leagues including football and rugby until September.

Before the season was halted due to the outbreak of COVID-19, PSG, Marseille and Rennes occupied the UEFA Champions League whereas Lille are taking the Europa League spot. Nimes, Amiens and Toulouse are in the relegation zone. Whereas in Ligue 2, Lorient and Lens are in promotion spots.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-gives-premier-league-and-other-european-leagues-may-25-deadline-for-restart-proposals-295339" hreflang="en">UEFA gives Premier League and other European leagues May 25 deadline for restart proposals</a>

Even the president of French scientific council on coronavirus, Jean-Paul Delgraissy, was absolutely against the resumption of live football amid the pandemic.&nbsp;

'The answer for the moment is no, since all the places where there can be a significant public will not be open from May 11,' he said.&nbsp; 
'We give ourselves a few weeks. We are watching what is happening.'

 
&nbsp;

French professional sports leagues including football and rugby won’t be able to resume action before September due to COVID-19 restrictions, France Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced on Tuesday.

French professional sports leagues including football and rugby won’t be able to resume action before September due to COVID-19 restrictions, France Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced on Tuesday. Philippe took the call as a part of a gradual plan to lift the lockdown restrictions in France as he said no event, where a crowd of more than 5,000 people gather, would be allowed until at least September. The announcement by French PM effectively means the Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 season, which was halted by COVID-19 outbreak now stand cancelled. ALSO READ: France eases lockdown restrictions; shops, markets to reopen on May 11 Earlier, UEFA had set a deadline of August 2 for domestic leagues to be completed and French Professional Football League (LFP) had announced plans for Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 to resume on June 17. While the league and some clubs may want to resume training after May 11, the French government doesn’t see it as an absolute priority and have decided to put a ban on professional sporting leagues including football and rugby until September. Before the season was halted due to the outbreak of COVID-19, PSG, Marseille and Rennes occupied the UEFA Champions League whereas Lille are taking the Europa League spot. Nimes, Amiens and Toulouse are in the relegation zone. Whereas in Ligue 2, Lorient and Lens are in promotion spots. ALSO READ: UEFA gives Premier League and other European leagues May 25 deadline for restart proposals Even the president of French scientific council on coronavirus, Jean-Paul Delgraissy, was absolutely against the resumption of live football amid the pandemic. 'The answer for the moment is no, since all the places where there can be a significant public will not be open from May 11,' he said. 'We give ourselves a few weeks. We are watching what is happening.'

French PM Edouard Philippe's announcement ends Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 seasons

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