UEFA has asked the Premier League and other European leagues to come up with a definite plan on how they plan to conclude the halted-season by May 25. The dreaded virus has wiped out the entire sporting calendar with the resumption of live action under dark clouds.

UEFA president Aleksander Caferin and general secretary Theodore Theodoridis have had talks with the Premier League and other leagues in Europe as they asked them to chalk out a detailed plan on how they want to conclude the current campaign.

A statement from European football's governing body said: "National Associations and/or Leagues should be in a position to communicate to UEFA by May 25, 2020, the planned restart of their domestic competitions — including the date of restart and the competition format."

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UEFA has asked clubs to communicate a plan by May 25 as to how they plan to restart domestic competitions. The footballing body has also asked association such as the Dutch FA, to "explain the special circumstances justifying such premature termination" by the same deadline

UEFA’s Executive Committee will next hold a conference call on May 27 to take a concrete call on whether European competitions can be completed in August.

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A UEFA working group has made ‘strong recommendation’ on completing domestic season but the authorities would prefer halted domestic competitions to restart ‘with a different format’ rather than cancelling it.

UEFA has also asked the 12 host cities of next summer's delayed European Championship to confirm their participation by Thursday 
&nbsp;

UEFA has asked the Premier League and other European leagues to come up with a definite plan on how they plan to conclude the halted-season by May 25. The dreaded virus has wiped out the entire sporting calendar with the resumption of live action under dark clouds.

UEFA has asked the Premier League and other European leagues to come up with a definite plan on how they plan to conclude the halted-season by May 25. The dreaded virus has wiped out the entire sporting calendar with the resumption of live action under dark clouds. UEFA president Aleksander Caferin and general secretary Theodore Theodoridis have had talks with the Premier League and other leagues in Europe as they asked them to chalk out a detailed plan on how they want to conclude the current campaign. A statement from European football's governing body said: "National Associations and/or Leagues should be in a position to communicate to UEFA by May 25, 2020, the planned restart of their domestic competitions — including the date of restart and the competition format." ALSO READ: Exclusive: Mike Tyson's business partner Alki David confident of acquiring naming rights of Barcelona's Nou Camp, says "ready to help the club in every possible way" UEFA has asked clubs to communicate a plan by May 25 as to how they plan to restart domestic competitions. The footballing body has also asked association such as the Dutch FA, to "explain the special circumstances justifying such premature termination" by the same deadline UEFA’s Executive Committee will next hold a conference call on May 27 to take a concrete call on whether European competitions can be completed in August. ALSO READ: Former Liverpool striker Michael Robinson dies at 61 A UEFA working group has made ‘strong recommendation’ on completing domestic season but the authorities would prefer halted domestic competitions to restart ‘with a different format’ rather than cancelling it. UEFA has also asked the 12 host cities of next summer's delayed European Championship to confirm their participation by Thursday

UEFA gives Premier League and other European leagues May 25 deadline for restart proposals

West Ham, Brighton and Arsenal opened their training grounds to players on Monday as Premier League clubs took steps towards a potential re-start.

The English top-flight is reportedly eyeing a resumption of the season on June 8 behind closed doors due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"Project Restart" could see the 20 Premier League clubs resume full training by May 18, allowing players a three-week "pre-season".

Premier League chiefs, due to meet with sides on Friday, are committed to finishing the season, with Liverpool on the brink of their first English top-flight title for 30 years.

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said he has spoken to clubs about restarting the Premier League "as soon as possible".

"I personally have been in talks with the Premier League with a view to getting football up and running as soon as possible in order to support the whole football community," Dowden said during a parliamentary questions session for the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.

"But, of course, any such moves would have to be consistent with public health guidance."

Brighton said in a statement on Monday the club were allowing "restricted external access to the training pitches for first-team players only, for non-compulsory individual training".

"Players will need to book and be allotted staggered arrival slots, allocated their own area to train and expected to fully adhere to social distancing rules while doing so, and when arriving and exiting the facility," the statement added.

A West Ham spokesman said players in apartments or without safe access to green spaces were permitted access to training pitches.

"Access will be limited to one player at a time and all sessions will be in line with government guidelines around social distancing," he said.

An Arsenal club spokesman confirmed on Saturday players would be allowed to return this week but access would be carefully managed.

It was unclear whether manager Mikel Arteta, who tested positive for the virus last month but has since recovered, was present on Monday.

Tottenham also announced they would reopen some facilities from Tuesday, with a limited amount of pitches to be made available for players to use in individual sessions.

The club said "only a restricted number of the squad" would be permitted at the training centre each day.

Britain, on lockdown until May 7 at the earliest, has been one of the countries hardest hit by the pandemic, with more than 20,000 hospital deaths.

West Ham, Brighton and Arsenal opened their training grounds to players on Monday as Premier League clubs took steps towards a potential re-start. The English top-flight is reportedly eyeing a resumption of the season on June 8 behind closed doors due to the coronavirus pandemic.

West Ham, Brighton and Arsenal opened their training grounds to players on Monday as Premier League clubs took steps towards a potential re-start. The English top-flight is reportedly eyeing a resumption of the season on June 8 behind closed doors due to the coronavirus pandemic. "Project Restart" could see the 20 Premier League clubs resume full training by May 18, allowing players a three-week "pre-season". Premier League chiefs, due to meet with sides on Friday, are committed to finishing the season, with Liverpool on the brink of their first English top-flight title for 30 years. Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said he has spoken to clubs about restarting the Premier League "as soon as possible". "I personally have been in talks with the Premier League with a view to getting football up and running as soon as possible in order to support the whole football community," Dowden said during a parliamentary questions session for the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. "But, of course, any such moves would have to be consistent with public health guidance." Brighton said in a statement on Monday the club were allowing "restricted external access to the training pitches for first-team players only, for non-compulsory individual training". "Players will need to book and be allotted staggered arrival slots, allocated their own area to train and expected to fully adhere to social distancing rules while doing so, and when arriving and exiting the facility," the statement added. A West Ham spokesman said players in apartments or without safe access to green spaces were permitted access to training pitches. "Access will be limited to one player at a time and all sessions will be in line with government guidelines around social distancing," he said. An Arsenal club spokesman confirmed on Saturday players would be allowed to return this week but access would be carefully managed. It was unclear whether manager Mikel Arteta, who tested positive for the virus last month but has since recovered, was present on Monday. Tottenham also announced they would reopen some facilities from Tuesday, with a limited amount of pitches to be made available for players to use in individual sessions. The club said "only a restricted number of the squad" would be permitted at the training centre each day. Britain, on lockdown until May 7 at the earliest, has been one of the countries hardest hit by the pandemic, with more than 20,000 hospital deaths.

West Ham, Brighton players return to training grounds

A lot has been said and debated over the possible resumption of live football with many popular leagues considering starting the already halted season. However, there were major concerns that players may suffer constant injuries due to lack of preparation time and going straight into matches following a prolonged time away from the pitch.&nbsp;

To tackle the injury concerns, FIFA has proposed that teams should be allowed to make up to five substitutions per game, instead of the usual three. The proposal by FIFA comes as a temporary measure to help football clubs cope with possible fixture congestion post the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

UEFA along with many other football leagues and federations are hoping to complete the halted season but that would mean a crammed fixture list to complete the season in a short period of time.

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The proposal of five substitutes would need to be approved by football’s rule-making organization – IFAB - and the final call would rest with the organisers of respective competitions.&nbsp;

“One concern in this regard is that the higher-than-normal frequency of matches may increase the risk of potential injuries due to a resulting player overload,” FIFA said in a statement.

“Each team would now be given the possibility to use up to five substitutions during the match, with the possibility of an additional substitution remaining during extra time, where relevant,” it explained.

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FIFA further said that substitutions would need to make in a maximum of three slots. The temporary rule would apply to this season and next season plus all international matches until Dec. 31 next year.

FIFA said that “football should only resume when the health authorities and governments say it is absolutely safe and non-disruptive of health services being delivered to the populations.” 
&nbsp;

A lot has been said and debated over the possible resumption of live football with many popular leagues considering starting the already halted season. However, there were major concerns that players may suffer constant injuries due to lack of preparation time and going straight into matches following a prolonged time away from the pitch.

A lot has been said and debated over the possible resumption of live football with many popular leagues considering starting the already halted season. However, there were major concerns that players may suffer constant injuries due to lack of preparation time and going straight into matches following a prolonged time away from the pitch. To tackle the injury concerns, FIFA has proposed that teams should be allowed to make up to five substitutions per game, instead of the usual three. The proposal by FIFA comes as a temporary measure to help football clubs cope with possible fixture congestion post the COVID-19 pandemic. UEFA along with many other football leagues and federations are hoping to complete the halted season but that would mean a crammed fixture list to complete the season in a short period of time. ALSO READ: Italy's PM delays Serie A restart decision The proposal of five substitutes would need to be approved by football’s rule-making organization – IFAB - and the final call would rest with the organisers of respective competitions. “One concern in this regard is that the higher-than-normal frequency of matches may increase the risk of potential injuries due to a resulting player overload,” FIFA said in a statement. “Each team would now be given the possibility to use up to five substitutions during the match, with the possibility of an additional substitution remaining during extra time, where relevant,” it explained. ALSO READ: NY governor wants to see sports teams return, even without fans FIFA further said that substitutions would need to make in a maximum of three slots. The temporary rule would apply to this season and next season plus all international matches until Dec. 31 next year. FIFA said that “football should only resume when the health authorities and governments say it is absolutely safe and non-disruptive of health services being delivered to the populations.”

A total of 5 substitutions per match? FIFA proposes temporary rule changes to reduce 'potential player overload' after resumption

Everton said they are "appalled" at one of their players widely reported to be Italian international Moise Kean hosting a house party contravening the social distancing measures recommended by the British government due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The 20-year-old striker filmed himself hosting the party, the Daily Mirror reported.

The Mirror says Kean sent video clips to a private Snapchat group, with the footage showing female guests giving lap dances.

The caption on one picture was labelled 'quarantine clean'.

Everton issued a statement expressing their fury at the player's actions -- they did not name Kean -- on a day when the death toll in hospitals in the United Kingdom passed the 20,000 mark.

"Everton are appalled to learn of an incident in which a first-team player ignored government guidance and club policy in relation to the coronavirus crisis," read the club statement.

"The club has strongly expressed its disappointment to the player and made it clear that such actions are completely unacceptable."

The club added that all their staff had been informed of the government guidelines, which include one piece of exercise a day and to restrict oneself to social interaction with just those of the household.

"Everton has regularly stressed the importance of following all the government guidelines -- including rules and advice for inside and outside of the home -- through a series of official communications to all staff members, including players," the club said.

"The amazing people in the NHS deserve the utmost respect for their hard work and sacrifice. The best way to show them respect is by doing everything we can to protect them."

Kean, signed for £24 million ($29.7 million) from Juventus last year, is one of several Premier League players to be held to account for breaking the guidelines.

Manchester City and England defender Kyle Walker reportedly broke lockdown rules by hosting a party involving two sex workers.

Tottenham's Ivory Coast defender Serge Aurier and French midfielder Moussa Sissoko apologised for training together despite the coronavirus restrictions.

Their manager Jose Mourinho "accepted his actions were not in line with protocol" after being pictured holding a one-on-one training session in a park with midfielder Tanguy Ndombele.

Everton said they are "appalled" at one of their players widely reported to be Italian international Moise Kean hosting a house party contravening the social distancing measures recommended by the British government due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Everton said they are "appalled" at one of their players widely reported to be Italian international Moise Kean hosting a house party contravening the social distancing measures recommended by the British government due to the coronavirus pandemic. The 20-year-old striker filmed himself hosting the party, the Daily Mirror reported. The Mirror says Kean sent video clips to a private Snapchat group, with the footage showing female guests giving lap dances. The caption on one picture was labelled 'quarantine clean'. Everton issued a statement expressing their fury at the player's actions -- they did not name Kean -- on a day when the death toll in hospitals in the United Kingdom passed the 20,000 mark. "Everton are appalled to learn of an incident in which a first-team player ignored government guidance and club policy in relation to the coronavirus crisis," read the club statement. "The club has strongly expressed its disappointment to the player and made it clear that such actions are completely unacceptable." The club added that all their staff had been informed of the government guidelines, which include one piece of exercise a day and to restrict oneself to social interaction with just those of the household. "Everton has regularly stressed the importance of following all the government guidelines -- including rules and advice for inside and outside of the home -- through a series of official communications to all staff members, including players," the club said. "The amazing people in the NHS deserve the utmost respect for their hard work and sacrifice. The best way to show them respect is by doing everything we can to protect them." Kean, signed for £24 million ($29.7 million) from Juventus last year, is one of several Premier League players to be held to account for breaking the guidelines. Manchester City and England defender Kyle Walker reportedly broke lockdown rules by hosting a party involving two sex workers. Tottenham's Ivory Coast defender Serge Aurier and French midfielder Moussa Sissoko apologised for training together despite the coronavirus restrictions. Their manager Jose Mourinho "accepted his actions were not in line with protocol" after being pictured holding a one-on-one training session in a park with midfielder Tanguy Ndombele.

Everton 'appalled' by Kean's house party in midst of virus lockdown

UEFA on Thursday decided that 2019/20 campaigns would be settled on ‘sporting merit’ given the leagues can’t be finished on time. UEFA’s decision of deciding Champions League and Europa League spots on ‘sporting merit’ means the final standings could be determined by the results thus far.

Hence, Liverpool, who are currently, 25 points clear in the Premier League standings, could be crowned champions even if league matches can’t be played in near future.

UEFA wants every major league to finish their respective campaigns but is clear that it may not be possible if governments place an official order to prohibit sporting events and gatherings.&nbsp;

The European sporting body has taken ‘null and void’ option off the table as final standings must be “based on sporting merit in the 2019/20 domestic competitions”.

UEFA has a plan-B in place which states that the sporting body prefers leagues to complete the season with a different format suggesting a play-off system to determine promotion and relegation candidates, and teams for European competitions.

<h2>Here’s the Premier League table on “sporting merit” for the season 2019/20:</h2>

1. Liverpool - 2.83 points per game

2. Manchester City - 2.04

3. Leicester City - 1.83

4. Chelsea - 1.66

5. Manchester United - 1.55

6. Sheffield United - 1.54

7. Wolverhampton Wanderers - 1.48

8. Arsenal - 1.43

9. Spurs - 1.41

10. Burnley - 1.34

11. Crystal Palace - 1.34

12. Everton - 1.28

13. Newcastle United - 1.21

14. Southampton - 1.17

15. Brighton - 1.00

16. West Ham United - 0.93

17. Watford - 0.93

18. Bournemouth - 0.93

19. Aston Villa - 0.89

20. Norwich City - 0.72 
&nbsp;

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

UEFA on Thursday decided that 2019/20 campaigns would be settled on ‘sporting merit’ given the leagues can’t be finished on time. UEFA’s decision of deciding Champions League and Europa League spots on ‘sporting merit’ means the final standings could be determined by the results thus far. Hence, Liverpool, who are currently, 25 points clear in the Premier League standings, could be crowned champions even if league matches can’t be played in near future. UEFA wants every major league to finish their respective campaigns but is clear that it may not be possible if governments place an official order to prohibit sporting events and gatherings. The European sporting body has taken ‘null and void’ option off the table as final standings must be “based on sporting merit in the 2019/20 domestic competitions”. UEFA has a plan-B in place which states that the sporting body prefers leagues to complete the season with a different format suggesting a play-off system to determine promotion and relegation candidates, and teams for European competitions. Here’s the Premier League table on “sporting merit” for the season 2019/20: 1. Liverpool - 2.83 points per game 2. Manchester City - 2.04 3. Leicester City - 1.83 4. Chelsea - 1.66 5. Manchester United - 1.55 6. Sheffield United - 1.54 7. Wolverhampton Wanderers - 1.48 8. Arsenal - 1.43 9. Spurs - 1.41 10. Burnley - 1.34 11. Crystal Palace - 1.34 12. Everton - 1.28 13. Newcastle United - 1.21 14. Southampton - 1.17 15. Brighton - 1.00 16. West Ham United - 0.93 17. Watford - 0.93 18. Bournemouth - 0.93 19. Aston Villa - 0.89 20. Norwich City - 0.72

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

Andres Iniesta has described his struggle with depression while playing for Barcelona, which his mother says was a "bottomless pit" that caused her 25-year-old son to ask to sleep with his parents.&nbsp;

Iniesta recalls his experience with the illness in a Rakuten TV documentary, 'Andres Iniesta - The Unexpected Hero', which was released on Thursday and covers his move to Japanese side Vissel Kobe in 2018.&nbsp;

After winning the Champions League under Pep Guardiola in 2009, Iniesta was battling injury and then hit by the death of his friend Dani Jarque, the 26-year-old Espanyol defender who suffered a heart attack.&nbsp;

"The days pass and you realise you're not improving, you don't feel good, you're not yourself. Everything clouds over and goes dark," Iniesta said.&nbsp;

On Jarque's death, Iniesta added: "That was like a body blow, something powerful that knocked me down again and I was pretty low, clearly because I wasn't very well."&nbsp;

Iniesta's depression is described by those closest to him, including his mother Maria Lujan and father Jose Antonio.&nbsp;

"I noticed he wasn't well one night when we were sleeping downstairs and he came down and said, 'mum can I sleep here with you?'" Maria said. "Then the world came down on my head."&nbsp;

Jose Antonio said: "Our 25 year-old son coming down at midnight and wanting to sleep with his parents means he can't be well. He said, 'I'm not well dad'. I said, 'what's wrong?' 'I don't know, I don't feel well.'"&nbsp;

Iniesta's father admitted he thought his son might have to take a break from football. "At one stage I thought he would have to stop because the most important thing was him," said Jose Antonio.

Iniesta began having sessions with psychologist Inma Puig, who said the Spaniard's recovery owed much to those around him, including Guardiola.&nbsp;

"Guardiola said this is the first time I've been in this situation as a coach," said Puig. "I remember he said, 'the most important thing now is Andres, the person not the player'."

"They're people and this is a very human thing which affects millions of people around the world," said Guardiola. "They have to know we are there for them."

"Guardiola tried to get him out of that bottomless pit he was in," said Iniesta's mother Maria.&nbsp;

Iniesta came through Barcelona's La Masia academy and went on to win nine La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues with the club.&nbsp;

He also lifted the World Cup with Spain in 2010, after scoring the winning goal against the Netherlands in the final.&nbsp;

Despite receiving a hero's farewell from Barca, Iniesta hinted his relationship with the board influenced his decision to go to Japan.&nbsp;

"People at the club never imagined I could leave," Iniesta said. "It's like everything, in relationships if you don't discuss things at the right time there comes a time when there's no way back."&nbsp;

Andres Iniesta has described his struggle with depression while playing for Barcelona, which his mother says was a "bottomless pit" that caused her 25-year-old son to ask to sleep with his parents.

Andres Iniesta has described his struggle with depression while playing for Barcelona, which his mother says was a "bottomless pit" that caused her 25-year-old son to ask to sleep with his parents. Iniesta recalls his experience with the illness in a Rakuten TV documentary, 'Andres Iniesta - The Unexpected Hero', which was released on Thursday and covers his move to Japanese side Vissel Kobe in 2018. After winning the Champions League under Pep Guardiola in 2009, Iniesta was battling injury and then hit by the death of his friend Dani Jarque, the 26-year-old Espanyol defender who suffered a heart attack. "The days pass and you realise you're not improving, you don't feel good, you're not yourself. Everything clouds over and goes dark," Iniesta said. On Jarque's death, Iniesta added: "That was like a body blow, something powerful that knocked me down again and I was pretty low, clearly because I wasn't very well." Iniesta's depression is described by those closest to him, including his mother Maria Lujan and father Jose Antonio. "I noticed he wasn't well one night when we were sleeping downstairs and he came down and said, 'mum can I sleep here with you?'" Maria said. "Then the world came down on my head." Jose Antonio said: "Our 25 year-old son coming down at midnight and wanting to sleep with his parents means he can't be well. He said, 'I'm not well dad'. I said, 'what's wrong?' 'I don't know, I don't feel well.'" Iniesta's father admitted he thought his son might have to take a break from football. "At one stage I thought he would have to stop because the most important thing was him," said Jose Antonio. Iniesta began having sessions with psychologist Inma Puig, who said the Spaniard's recovery owed much to those around him, including Guardiola. "Guardiola said this is the first time I've been in this situation as a coach," said Puig. "I remember he said, 'the most important thing now is Andres, the person not the player'." "They're people and this is a very human thing which affects millions of people around the world," said Guardiola. "They have to know we are there for them." "Guardiola tried to get him out of that bottomless pit he was in," said Iniesta's mother Maria. Iniesta came through Barcelona's La Masia academy and went on to win nine La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues with the club. He also lifted the World Cup with Spain in 2010, after scoring the winning goal against the Netherlands in the final. Despite receiving a hero's farewell from Barca, Iniesta hinted his relationship with the board influenced his decision to go to Japan. "People at the club never imagined I could leave," Iniesta said. "It's like everything, in relationships if you don't discuss things at the right time there comes a time when there's no way back."

'Everything clouds over and goes dark' - Iniesta on depression at Barcelona

Germany's ministry of labour wants footballers to wear masks as protection against the coronavirus if Angela Merkel's government gives the green light for the Bundesliga to return next month.

The German Football League (DFL) confirmed Thursday that they are ready for the Bundesliga to resume from May 9, albeit without fans in stadiums and with strict player hygiene measures in place.

The final decision will be made by German Chancellor Merkel and state leaders, who are due to meet in Berlin on Thursday.

Germany has been less affected by the pandemic, but currently has 5,321 deaths due to the virus.

According to magazine Spiegel, the Federal Ministry for Labour has drafted safety guidelines which include a recommendation players wear a mask which would "not slip in sprints, headers and challenges".

"Should the masks slip, the game must immediately be stopped", according to the draft, and because the masks would get wet fast due to exertion, they should be "replaced every 15 minutes at the latest".

Germany's team doctor Tim Meyer, part of the task force looking into how the German league can return, is sceptical.

"There have also been suggestions such as players should keep their distance in the free-kick wall," Meyer told the German press agency DPA.

"But then the spectators would no longer perceive football as authentic.

"If players played with masks, I don't think that would be accepted."

Another suggestion in the ministry guidelines is that each team be quarantined in a hotel for the duration of the season amid hopes it can be completed in Germany by June 30.

Players have already given a mixed response to the idea of being isolated for the nine remaining games of the season.

"I personally would find it extremely difficult to spend the next few weeks in a hotel and not be able to see my family," Eintracht Frankfurt defender Danny da Costa told reporters.

However, Bayern Munich forward Thomas Mueller said being placed in quarantine may be the only way to get the season finished.

"It is quite clear that football would submit to almost all the rules necessary to play," Mueller told magazine Sport Bild.

Germany's ministry of labour wants footballers to wear masks as protection against the coronavirus if Angela Merkel's government gives the green light for the Bundesliga to return next month.

Germany's ministry of labour wants footballers to wear masks as protection against the coronavirus if Angela Merkel's government gives the green light for the Bundesliga to return next month. The German Football League (DFL) confirmed Thursday that they are ready for the Bundesliga to resume from May 9, albeit without fans in stadiums and with strict player hygiene measures in place. The final decision will be made by German Chancellor Merkel and state leaders, who are due to meet in Berlin on Thursday. Germany has been less affected by the pandemic, but currently has 5,321 deaths due to the virus. According to magazine Spiegel, the Federal Ministry for Labour has drafted safety guidelines which include a recommendation players wear a mask which would "not slip in sprints, headers and challenges". "Should the masks slip, the game must immediately be stopped", according to the draft, and because the masks would get wet fast due to exertion, they should be "replaced every 15 minutes at the latest". Germany's team doctor Tim Meyer, part of the task force looking into how the German league can return, is sceptical. "There have also been suggestions such as players should keep their distance in the free-kick wall," Meyer told the German press agency DPA. "But then the spectators would no longer perceive football as authentic. "If players played with masks, I don't think that would be accepted." Another suggestion in the ministry guidelines is that each team be quarantined in a hotel for the duration of the season amid hopes it can be completed in Germany by June 30. Players have already given a mixed response to the idea of being isolated for the nine remaining games of the season. "I personally would find it extremely difficult to spend the next few weeks in a hotel and not be able to see my family," Eintracht Frankfurt defender Danny da Costa told reporters. However, Bayern Munich forward Thomas Mueller said being placed in quarantine may be the only way to get the season finished. "It is quite clear that football would submit to almost all the rules necessary to play," Mueller told magazine Sport Bild.

Calls for footballers to wear masks if Bundesliga returns

The Premier League is considering screening some behind-closed-doors matches on free-to-air television in Britain when the season restarts, the culture secretary has said.

Sky Sports and BT hold the UK television rights for live Premier League matches in what remains of the 2019/20 season, which is currently suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said there had been "productive conversations" with sporting bodies about how they would resume activity in the event of restrictions being relaxed.

Discussing how sport would be broadcast if held behind closed doors, he told the Commons Digital, Culture, Media and Sport committee: "I have said to the Premier League it wouldn't send the best signal if they were one of the first major sports to resume behind closed doors and the public at large couldn't have access to it."

But Dowden, who spoke to the lawmakers on Wednesday, refused to speculate further on which platforms would broadcast the games.

"If they are being mindful of access points, that doesn't just have to be going onto traditional terrestrial matches, or even showing all of the matches," he said.

"There's all sorts of creative options within that but it is something they should be considering, and they have said they are."

Dowden said the government had talked with the police, health authorities and local government as part of planning for a potential resumption.

The Premier League is considering screening some behind-closed-doors matches on free-to-air television in Britain when the season restarts, the culture secretary has said.

The Premier League is considering screening some behind-closed-doors matches on free-to-air television in Britain when the season restarts, the culture secretary has said. Sky Sports and BT hold the UK television rights for live Premier League matches in what remains of the 2019/20 season, which is currently suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic. Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said there had been "productive conversations" with sporting bodies about how they would resume activity in the event of restrictions being relaxed. Discussing how sport would be broadcast if held behind closed doors, he told the Commons Digital, Culture, Media and Sport committee: "I have said to the Premier League it wouldn't send the best signal if they were one of the first major sports to resume behind closed doors and the public at large couldn't have access to it." But Dowden, who spoke to the lawmakers on Wednesday, refused to speculate further on which platforms would broadcast the games. "If they are being mindful of access points, that doesn't just have to be going onto traditional terrestrial matches, or even showing all of the matches," he said. "There's all sorts of creative options within that but it is something they should be considering, and they have said they are." Dowden said the government had talked with the police, health authorities and local government as part of planning for a potential resumption.

Premier League matches could return on free-to-air TV

Watford became the latest Premier League club to agree a wage deferral with players on Wednesday to help ride out the economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Southampton, West Ham and Sheffield United have also agreed deferrals, while Arsenal's players will take a 12.5 percent pay cut over the next year.

The Premier League fears a failure to finish the season could cost clubs £1 billion ($1.2 billion).&nbsp;

"It is a show of unity which we know our supporters and the wider Watford community will appreciate, and shows an awareness of the need for everybody to pull together in these incredibly challenging times," said Watford chairman and CEO Scott Duxbury.

"We can be proud of the players for taking this step. They recognised they have a role to play and didn't hesitate in taking a decision for the overall good of the club."

The Hornets were 17th in the Premier League, outside the relegation zone only on goal difference when matches were indefinitely suspended due to the public health crisis.

Should the season be able to restart, Watford risk the trap door of another severe economic hit with relegation.

"Nobody, wherever they work, is keen on the idea of a pay cut, so there's a bit of common sense and a good level of understanding has prevailed to get to a pay deferral over the short&nbsp;term," said captain Troy Deeney.

"The details of what we've agreed are private - but they're in the best interests of helping the club right now, no one needs to be in any doubt about that."

Watford became the latest Premier League club to agree a wage deferral with players on Wednesday to help ride out the economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Watford became the latest Premier League club to agree a wage deferral with players on Wednesday to help ride out the economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Southampton, West Ham and Sheffield United have also agreed deferrals, while Arsenal's players will take a 12.5 percent pay cut over the next year. The Premier League fears a failure to finish the season could cost clubs £1 billion ($1.2 billion). "It is a show of unity which we know our supporters and the wider Watford community will appreciate, and shows an awareness of the need for everybody to pull together in these incredibly challenging times," said Watford chairman and CEO Scott Duxbury. "We can be proud of the players for taking this step. They recognised they have a role to play and didn't hesitate in taking a decision for the overall good of the club." The Hornets were 17th in the Premier League, outside the relegation zone only on goal difference when matches were indefinitely suspended due to the public health crisis. Should the season be able to restart, Watford risk the trap door of another severe economic hit with relegation. "Nobody, wherever they work, is keen on the idea of a pay cut, so there's a bit of common sense and a good level of understanding has prevailed to get to a pay deferral over the short term," said captain Troy Deeney. "The details of what we've agreed are private - but they're in the best interests of helping the club right now, no one needs to be in any doubt about that."

Watford join Premier League clubs to agree player wage deferral

Italy's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora warned on Wednesday caution was needed as he promised a decision "in the coming days" on whether Italian football clubs can return to training amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Spadafora held a two-hour video-conference with representatives of Italian football, including federation chiefs, professional and amateurs leagues, players and doctors.

"I listened with great attention to the various positions that emerged and in the next few days, after a discussion with the Minister of Health and the Technical Scientific Committee, we will issue the updated provisions regarding the possibility and the procedures for a return to training," said Spadafora.

All sport in Italy has been suspended for the past six weeks as the country grapples with the COVID-19 crisis which has killed over 25,000 people.

"I can assure you that maintaining a profile of extreme prudence, as I am doing, is the most unpopular position imaginable," Spadafora later said in a post on Facebook.

"But we have the duty and responsibility to ensure that the whole country, obviously including the world of sport, can soon emerge from this health crisis.

"I am also a fan who misses following my team.&nbsp;

"I was looking forward to the European championships this summer, but they will be postponed, like the Olympics, the Giro d'Italia and all sports competitions in our country.&nbsp;

"It is a huge disappointment, in a much bigger and deeper pain, in an atrocious mourning that has struck our country, Europe, the whole world."

The 20 Serie A clubs voted unanimously on Tuesday to complete the league season, which has been suspended since March 9.

The federation presented Spadafora with a medical code to allow the resumption of competition.&nbsp;

Players could start training again, in small groups and under strict medical supervision, from May 4, the date on which the government plans to start easing the containment measures.

Matches would start at the end of May or the beginning of June.

Spadafora earlier addressed the Italian Senate on the "gradual resumption" of sports activities, and later held talks with representatives of 19 other Italian federations.

"This restart is necessary because sport is important not only for its economic value but also its social value," he said.

Italy's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora warned on Wednesday caution was needed as he promised a decision "in the coming days" on whether Italian football clubs can return to training amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Italy's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora warned on Wednesday caution was needed as he promised a decision "in the coming days" on whether Italian football clubs can return to training amid the coronavirus pandemic. Spadafora held a two-hour video-conference with representatives of Italian football, including federation chiefs, professional and amateurs leagues, players and doctors. "I listened with great attention to the various positions that emerged and in the next few days, after a discussion with the Minister of Health and the Technical Scientific Committee, we will issue the updated provisions regarding the possibility and the procedures for a return to training," said Spadafora. All sport in Italy has been suspended for the past six weeks as the country grapples with the COVID-19 crisis which has killed over 25,000 people. "I can assure you that maintaining a profile of extreme prudence, as I am doing, is the most unpopular position imaginable," Spadafora later said in a post on Facebook. "But we have the duty and responsibility to ensure that the whole country, obviously including the world of sport, can soon emerge from this health crisis. "I am also a fan who misses following my team. "I was looking forward to the European championships this summer, but they will be postponed, like the Olympics, the Giro d'Italia and all sports competitions in our country. "It is a huge disappointment, in a much bigger and deeper pain, in an atrocious mourning that has struck our country, Europe, the whole world." The 20 Serie A clubs voted unanimously on Tuesday to complete the league season, which has been suspended since March 9. The federation presented Spadafora with a medical code to allow the resumption of competition. Players could start training again, in small groups and under strict medical supervision, from May 4, the date on which the government plans to start easing the containment measures. Matches would start at the end of May or the beginning of June. Spadafora earlier addressed the Italian Senate on the "gradual resumption" of sports activities, and later held talks with representatives of 19 other Italian federations. "This restart is necessary because sport is important not only for its economic value but also its social value," he said.

Italy's sports minister says caution needed over return to football

The Dutch football federation (KNVB) announced on Tuesday its intention to call an end to the season, subject to discussions with UEFA, following the government's decision to extend a ban on large gatherings until September due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"The professional football committee intends to not continue playing the 2019/20 competition. The KNVB will consult UEFA, after which a decision will be taken," the federation said in a statement.&nbsp;

"The KNVB has not yet definitively cancelled competitions because of financial difficulties in the football industry due to the coronavirus crisis."

Clubs and other stakeholders will meet Friday to discuss the consequences of the decision.

There are eight rounds of matches left in the Eredivisie, with defending champions Ajax ahead of AZ Alkmaar on goal difference. The Dutch Cup final had been scheduled for April 19.

According to the KNVB, matches behind closed doors will not be possible as they are considered events which require a permit and police presence.

"There will be no matches before September 1," the statement added.

The Dutch top flight and second division have been suspended since March 12.

Earlier on Tuesday, European football's governing body UEFA made "a strong recommendation" to finish domestic competitions after holding a videoconference with its 55 member associations.

However, it added that "some special cases will be heard once guidelines concerning participation to European competitions -- in case of a cancelled league -- have been developed."

UEFA said any decisions would be announced after its Executive Committee meets on Thursday. Before that it is due to meet with the powerful European Club Association (ECA) and the European Leagues grouping, which represents nearly a thousand clubs in 29 countries, on Wednesday.

Belgium and Scotland also appear to be awaiting a green light from UEFA to call an end to their seasons.

The ban on mass gatherings will also affect the Dutch Formula One Grand Prix, due to the return to the calendar for the first time since 1985, and the MotoGP race at Assen scheduled for June 28.

The Dutch football federation (KNVB) announced on Tuesday its intention to call an end to the season, subject to discussions with UEFA, following the government's decision to extend a ban on large gatherings until September due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Dutch football federation (KNVB) announced on Tuesday its intention to call an end to the season, subject to discussions with UEFA, following the government's decision to extend a ban on large gatherings until September due to the coronavirus pandemic. "The professional football committee intends to not continue playing the 2019/20 competition. The KNVB will consult UEFA, after which a decision will be taken," the federation said in a statement. "The KNVB has not yet definitively cancelled competitions because of financial difficulties in the football industry due to the coronavirus crisis." Clubs and other stakeholders will meet Friday to discuss the consequences of the decision. There are eight rounds of matches left in the Eredivisie, with defending champions Ajax ahead of AZ Alkmaar on goal difference. The Dutch Cup final had been scheduled for April 19. According to the KNVB, matches behind closed doors will not be possible as they are considered events which require a permit and police presence. "There will be no matches before September 1," the statement added. The Dutch top flight and second division have been suspended since March 12. Earlier on Tuesday, European football's governing body UEFA made "a strong recommendation" to finish domestic competitions after holding a videoconference with its 55 member associations. However, it added that "some special cases will be heard once guidelines concerning participation to European competitions -- in case of a cancelled league -- have been developed." UEFA said any decisions would be announced after its Executive Committee meets on Thursday. Before that it is due to meet with the powerful European Club Association (ECA) and the European Leagues grouping, which represents nearly a thousand clubs in 29 countries, on Wednesday. Belgium and Scotland also appear to be awaiting a green light from UEFA to call an end to their seasons. The ban on mass gatherings will also affect the Dutch Formula One Grand Prix, due to the return to the calendar for the first time since 1985, and the MotoGP race at Assen scheduled for June 28.

Dutch top flight likely over after government extends ban

German football authorities are set to announce plans on Thursday for Bundesliga matches to restart on May 9 in empty stadiums, but the potential return in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic is meeting some opposition.

Chancellor Angela Merkel's government is slowly easing nationwide restrictions and the resumption of the Bundesliga, which was halted on March 13, would boost morale in football-mad Germany.

It would also make the Bundesliga the first top-flight European league to begin playing again.

Large public events are banned in Germany until August 31, yet football could resume without spectators -- known as "ghost games" in German. Germany has more testing capacity than other European countries and players could be tested regularly.

The 18 clubs have been back in training for three weeks, albeit in small groups with social distancing observed even on the pitch.&nbsp;

Having already been given signs of encouragement by politicians, the German Football League (DFL) is set to iron out details in Thursday's video conference meeting of the clubs.

Final approval could be given by Merkel and regional state premiers at a meeting on April 30.

The DFL is desperate for the league season to be completed by June 30 to ensure payment of the next instalment of television money, worth around 300 million euros ($326 million).

The cash could keep some clubs alive, with 13 of the 36 clubs in Germany's top two tiers reportedly on the verge of insolvency.

With fans across Europe and the world deprived of football, the games are also likely to attract TV audiences far beyond Germany.

<h2>- Cardboard supporters -</h2>

With fans locked out and asked to stay at home, only players, backroom staff, stewards, media and officials will be allowed into the stadiums for games with numbers strictly regulated.

Some clubs are being innovative about the problem of potentially playing in near-empty stadiums.

Borussia Moenchengladbach have filled their terraces with life-sized cardboard cut-outs of fans.

However, the restart is unpopular in some quarters and criticism has come from some supporters' groups.

Critics point to figures of more than 140,000 cases of coronavirus and over 4,500 deaths in Germany as proof that football is inappropriate.

Restarting the season in the middle of the pandemic "would be sheer mockery for the rest of society" according to supporters' group Fanszenen Deutschlands, who accuse the clubs of greed.

"Professional football has long been sick enough and should continue to be quarantined," it said.

Nationwide fan group "Unsere Kurve" ha also slammed the move.

Football "cannot act in isolation from the situation in society as a whole," it said. "If the game continues like this, we're out!"

Even some players are uncomfortable about returning to action in the current situation.

"There are more important things than football at the moment," said Bayern Munich defender Niklas Suele.

In Berlin, Union forward Sebastian Polter said "nobody wants ghost games -- no player, no fan" even if they appear to the only option to complete the season.

It will also take around 20,000 tests of players and backroom staff to be able to complete all the remaining matches.

Germany has a testing capacity of 550,000 per week, so 20,000 tests spread over the nine remaining Bundesliga matchdays seems manageable.

However, the Robert Koch Institute, which advises the German government, sees things differently.

"I think the tests should be used where it makes medical sense," the institute's vice-president Lars Schaade said on Tuesday.

"I do not see why certain population groups, whether athletes or otherwise, should be routinely screened."

<h2>- 'Leap of faith' -</h2>

Nevertheless, it seems highly likely the Bundesliga will return next month.

Markus Soeder, the state premier of Bavaria, and Armin Laschet, head of North Rhine-Westphalia -- two key German football strongholds -- have voiced support.

Christian Seifert, the Bundesliga's CEO, has said the league's clubs and stars have a duty "to repay the trust" shown by the politicians.&nbsp;

Senior figures at Bayern Munich, who have a four-point lead at the top of the league, Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig have expressed similar gratitude.

"This is a great leap of faith," said Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke.&nbsp;

"Football is an opportunity to give millions of fans a little more zest for life again."

German football authorities are set to announce plans on Thursday for Bundesliga matches to restart on May 9 in empty stadiums, but the potential return in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic is meeting some opposition.

German football authorities are set to announce plans on Thursday for Bundesliga matches to restart on May 9 in empty stadiums, but the potential return in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic is meeting some opposition. Chancellor Angela Merkel's government is slowly easing nationwide restrictions and the resumption of the Bundesliga, which was halted on March 13, would boost morale in football-mad Germany. It would also make the Bundesliga the first top-flight European league to begin playing again. Large public events are banned in Germany until August 31, yet football could resume without spectators -- known as "ghost games" in German. Germany has more testing capacity than other European countries and players could be tested regularly. The 18 clubs have been back in training for three weeks, albeit in small groups with social distancing observed even on the pitch. Having already been given signs of encouragement by politicians, the German Football League (DFL) is set to iron out details in Thursday's video conference meeting of the clubs. Final approval could be given by Merkel and regional state premiers at a meeting on April 30. The DFL is desperate for the league season to be completed by June 30 to ensure payment of the next instalment of television money, worth around 300 million euros ($326 million). The cash could keep some clubs alive, with 13 of the 36 clubs in Germany's top two tiers reportedly on the verge of insolvency. With fans across Europe and the world deprived of football, the games are also likely to attract TV audiences far beyond Germany. - Cardboard supporters - With fans locked out and asked to stay at home, only players, backroom staff, stewards, media and officials will be allowed into the stadiums for games with numbers strictly regulated. Some clubs are being innovative about the problem of potentially playing in near-empty stadiums. Borussia Moenchengladbach have filled their terraces with life-sized cardboard cut-outs of fans. However, the restart is unpopular in some quarters and criticism has come from some supporters' groups. Critics point to figures of more than 140,000 cases of coronavirus and over 4,500 deaths in Germany as proof that football is inappropriate. Restarting the season in the middle of the pandemic "would be sheer mockery for the rest of society" according to supporters' group Fanszenen Deutschlands, who accuse the clubs of greed. "Professional football has long been sick enough and should continue to be quarantined," it said. Nationwide fan group "Unsere Kurve" ha also slammed the move. Football "cannot act in isolation from the situation in society as a whole," it said. "If the game continues like this, we're out!" Even some players are uncomfortable about returning to action in the current situation. "There are more important things than football at the moment," said Bayern Munich defender Niklas Suele. In Berlin, Union forward Sebastian Polter said "nobody wants ghost games -- no player, no fan" even if they appear to the only option to complete the season. It will also take around 20,000 tests of players and backroom staff to be able to complete all the remaining matches. Germany has a testing capacity of 550,000 per week, so 20,000 tests spread over the nine remaining Bundesliga matchdays seems manageable. However, the Robert Koch Institute, which advises the German government, sees things differently. "I think the tests should be used where it makes medical sense," the institute's vice-president Lars Schaade said on Tuesday. "I do not see why certain population groups, whether athletes or otherwise, should be routinely screened." - 'Leap of faith' - Nevertheless, it seems highly likely the Bundesliga will return next month. Markus Soeder, the state premier of Bavaria, and Armin Laschet, head of North Rhine-Westphalia -- two key German football strongholds -- have voiced support. Christian Seifert, the Bundesliga's CEO, has said the league's clubs and stars have a duty "to repay the trust" shown by the politicians. Senior figures at Bayern Munich, who have a four-point lead at the top of the league, Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig have expressed similar gratitude. "This is a great leap of faith," said Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke. "Football is an opportunity to give millions of fans a little more zest for life again."

German football plans May return but debate rages

A Saudi-backed takeover of Newcastle United appears to be nearing completion at a time when the rest of the football industry is on its knees due to the economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

For Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the crisis presents a commercial opportunity and a chance to break into the lucrative Premier League.

But the potential £300 million ($370 million) deal, which will reportedly see the Saudi fund take an 80 percent stake in the club,&nbsp;is facing fierce opposition from human rights groups and one of Saudi's regional rivals.

The Premier League bubble is close to bursting as clubs scramble to avoid losing hundreds of millions in broadcast rebates if the season is not completed and a deep recession threatens income from gate receipts, merchandise and sponsorship.

As a result, transfer fees are expected to drop sharply while wages will also be depressed, with even the world's wealthiest clubs now hastily arranging pay cuts or deferrals with their star players.

<h2>- Rights concerns -</h2>

The spectre of a Saudi takeover throws another spanner in the works for the league's governance at a time of crisis.

Critics have accused Saudi Arabia of "sports washing", saying the government uses sport as a way of distracting attention from its human rights record.

Global rights group Amnesty International wrote to Premier League chief executive Richard Masters on Tuesday, warning the competition "risks becoming a patsy" unless it takes a serious look at the rights issue.

"If the crown prince, by virtue of his authority over the Public Investment Fund, takes control of Newcastle United, we are questioning how that can possibly be positive for the reputation of the Premier League," Felix Jakens, Amnesty UK's Head of Priority Campaigns and Individuals at Risk, told AFP.

The Newcastle bid comes just months after five people were sentenced to death over the 2018 murder in Saudi Arabia's Istanbul consulate of Jamal Khashoggi, a journalist who had been critical of the Saudi regime.

The murder, described as a "rogue" operation by Riyadh, tipped Saudi Arabia into one of its worst diplomatic crises and tarnished the reputation of the crown prince , who is the de facto ruler of the country.

But resistance to the deal may come down to a monetary rather than moral judgement.

One of the Premier League's biggest overseas broadcasters, BeIN Sports, has written to all 20 English top-flight clubs warning the "future economic model of football" is at stake if the Saudi takeover is allowed to go through.

Qatar-based BeIN accuses Saudi of masterminding the pirate broadcasting of BeIN output, which included EPL games, as part of a spat between Doha and Riyadh. Saudi denies the claims.

<h2>- Manchester City template -</h2>

For those competing at the top of the table, a Saudi-backed Newcastle could also become a threat on the pitch.

Prior to a takeover from Sheikh Mansour, a member of the Abu Dhabi royal family in 2008, Manchester City had not won a major trophy since 1976.&nbsp;

The English champions have now won 11 in the past nine years, including four Premier League titles.

The investment required to raise City's status from mid-table mediocrity to title contenders resulted in losses of £584 million in the first six years of the Abu Dhabi reign.

By buying in at a time when most other clubs are strapped for cash, the PIF could transform Newcastle's fortunes on the field more quickly and at a much lower cost.

"The vultures and predators will pick off good players for very modest fees," football finance expert Kieran Maguire told AFP.

The Saudi PIF did not respond to AFP's request for comment.

The chances of other clubs mirroring what City and Qatari-owned Paris Saint-Germain have done in spending their way into the elite of European football seemed to have been ended by financial fair play (FFP) rules.

To gain access to UEFA's lucrative European competitions, clubs must not lose more than 30 million euros ($33 million) over a three-year period.

Indeed, subject to an appeal, City have been banned by UEFA from European competitions for the next two seasons for overstating their sponsorship revenue.

Premier League rules on FFP are far less restrictive, with losses up to £105 million over the course of three years allowed.

However, given the damage wreaked on the football industry by the coronavirus shutdown, the authorities may have to relax punitive sanctions for breaching FFP in the coming seasons.

A UEFA working group is already studying how FFP will need to be adapted following the crisis.

Should their appetite for spending not be curbed by FFP and with the PIF sitting on assets worth $320 billion, Newcastle could soon be the envy of European football.

A Saudi-backed takeover of Newcastle United appears to be nearing completion at a time when the rest of the football industry is on its knees due to the economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

A Saudi-backed takeover of Newcastle United appears to be nearing completion at a time when the rest of the football industry is on its knees due to the economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. For Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the crisis presents a commercial opportunity and a chance to break into the lucrative Premier League. But the potential £300 million ($370 million) deal, which will reportedly see the Saudi fund take an 80 percent stake in the club, is facing fierce opposition from human rights groups and one of Saudi's regional rivals. The Premier League bubble is close to bursting as clubs scramble to avoid losing hundreds of millions in broadcast rebates if the season is not completed and a deep recession threatens income from gate receipts, merchandise and sponsorship. As a result, transfer fees are expected to drop sharply while wages will also be depressed, with even the world's wealthiest clubs now hastily arranging pay cuts or deferrals with their star players. - Rights concerns - The spectre of a Saudi takeover throws another spanner in the works for the league's governance at a time of crisis. Critics have accused Saudi Arabia of "sports washing", saying the government uses sport as a way of distracting attention from its human rights record. Global rights group Amnesty International wrote to Premier League chief executive Richard Masters on Tuesday, warning the competition "risks becoming a patsy" unless it takes a serious look at the rights issue. "If the crown prince, by virtue of his authority over the Public Investment Fund, takes control of Newcastle United, we are questioning how that can possibly be positive for the reputation of the Premier League," Felix Jakens, Amnesty UK's Head of Priority Campaigns and Individuals at Risk, told AFP. The Newcastle bid comes just months after five people were sentenced to death over the 2018 murder in Saudi Arabia's Istanbul consulate of Jamal Khashoggi, a journalist who had been critical of the Saudi regime. The murder, described as a "rogue" operation by Riyadh, tipped Saudi Arabia into one of its worst diplomatic crises and tarnished the reputation of the crown prince , who is the de facto ruler of the country. But resistance to the deal may come down to a monetary rather than moral judgement. One of the Premier League's biggest overseas broadcasters, BeIN Sports, has written to all 20 English top-flight clubs warning the "future economic model of football" is at stake if the Saudi takeover is allowed to go through. Qatar-based BeIN accuses Saudi of masterminding the pirate broadcasting of BeIN output, which included EPL games, as part of a spat between Doha and Riyadh. Saudi denies the claims. - Manchester City template - For those competing at the top of the table, a Saudi-backed Newcastle could also become a threat on the pitch. Prior to a takeover from Sheikh Mansour, a member of the Abu Dhabi royal family in 2008, Manchester City had not won a major trophy since 1976. The English champions have now won 11 in the past nine years, including four Premier League titles. The investment required to raise City's status from mid-table mediocrity to title contenders resulted in losses of £584 million in the first six years of the Abu Dhabi reign. By buying in at a time when most other clubs are strapped for cash, the PIF could transform Newcastle's fortunes on the field more quickly and at a much lower cost. "The vultures and predators will pick off good players for very modest fees," football finance expert Kieran Maguire told AFP. The Saudi PIF did not respond to AFP's request for comment. The chances of other clubs mirroring what City and Qatari-owned Paris Saint-Germain have done in spending their way into the elite of European football seemed to have been ended by financial fair play (FFP) rules. To gain access to UEFA's lucrative European competitions, clubs must not lose more than 30 million euros ($33 million) over a three-year period. Indeed, subject to an appeal, City have been banned by UEFA from European competitions for the next two seasons for overstating their sponsorship revenue. Premier League rules on FFP are far less restrictive, with losses up to £105 million over the course of three years allowed. However, given the damage wreaked on the football industry by the coronavirus shutdown, the authorities may have to relax punitive sanctions for breaching FFP in the coming seasons. A UEFA working group is already studying how FFP will need to be adapted following the crisis. Should their appetite for spending not be curbed by FFP and with the PIF sitting on assets worth $320 billion, Newcastle could soon be the envy of European football.

Coronavirus crisis presents opportunity for Saudi's Newcastle project

Jurgen Klopp believes there is still room for improvement from Liverpool despite their incredible Premier League campaign, which is on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Reds were 25 points clear of second-placed Manchester City and on the verge of their first top-flight title since 1990 when football was halted last month.

But Klopp said Liverpool, who won the Champions League last year and have only lost one Premier League match all season, could get even better.

"We will not change, that's the first thing, but whether we will be successful depends on what other clubs are doing as well because they have all the chance to improve things, do things better," he told Sky Sports.

"So I have no clue what the future will hold for us. But we will not change, this team is not the finished article, and we have a lot of space for improvement, and we work on that.

"We have fresh blood internally coming through. We can improve with this team, which is great."

Klopp does not believe football should be "forced back" after the COVID-19 shutdown but admitted it could have a positive impact on the mood of the country.

There is no end in sight to the football lockdown in England but German football authorities are set to announce plans for Bundesliga matches to restart in empty stadiums on May 9.

"We are all at home, all isolated, we have no cases or stuff like this," said Klopp.

"If we come together and train in groups of two or five or six or eight, I'm not sure when that will be possible, we have to wait for the government on that. We cannot force that and will not, because we can't, there's absolutely nothing for that.

"But if football can help in some departments with lifting the mood, giving something to think about and to deal with in a different way, then we have to start training at one point, but I don't know when that will be."

Jurgen Klopp believes there is still room for improvement from Liverpool despite their incredible Premier League campaign, which is on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Jurgen Klopp believes there is still room for improvement from Liverpool despite their incredible Premier League campaign, which is on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Reds were 25 points clear of second-placed Manchester City and on the verge of their first top-flight title since 1990 when football was halted last month. But Klopp said Liverpool, who won the Champions League last year and have only lost one Premier League match all season, could get even better. "We will not change, that's the first thing, but whether we will be successful depends on what other clubs are doing as well because they have all the chance to improve things, do things better," he told Sky Sports. "So I have no clue what the future will hold for us. But we will not change, this team is not the finished article, and we have a lot of space for improvement, and we work on that. "We have fresh blood internally coming through. We can improve with this team, which is great." Klopp does not believe football should be "forced back" after the COVID-19 shutdown but admitted it could have a positive impact on the mood of the country. There is no end in sight to the football lockdown in England but German football authorities are set to announce plans for Bundesliga matches to restart in empty stadiums on May 9. "We are all at home, all isolated, we have no cases or stuff like this," said Klopp. "If we come together and train in groups of two or five or six or eight, I'm not sure when that will be possible, we have to wait for the government on that. We cannot force that and will not, because we can't, there's absolutely nothing for that. "But if football can help in some departments with lifting the mood, giving something to think about and to deal with in a different way, then we have to start training at one point, but I don't know when that will be."

Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool are not finished article

The Premier League and all the clubs have been urged to block the much-talked-about takeover of Newcastle United by its overseas TV partner beIN Sports. Newcastle United are on the verge of a £300m-plus takeover by Saudi-backed consortium PCP Capitals, involving Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The Magpies could be handed over to the consortium, involving financier Amanda Staveley, in the next couple of weeks given the Premier Leagues’ Owners and Directors’ Test is completed. However, Qatar-based broadcaster beIN Sports has said that Saudi Arabia should be held accountable for its involvement in a pirate TV network, which broadcasts Premier League matches illegally.&nbsp;

The network, named beoutQ, first began live-streaming sporting events, illegally, in the year 2017. The Premier League has been among a number of organisations and sporting bodies who have asked Arabsat to stop providing a channel for a pirate network.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dutch-top-flight-likely-over-after-government-extends-ban-293965" hreflang="en">Dutch top flight likely over after government extends ban</a>

In July 2019, the Premier League said that it had spoken to nine law firms in Saudi Arabia, who simply refused to pursue a copyright complaint against beoutQ.

BeIN Sports are Premier League’s biggest overseas broadcast partner with their deal costing £500million for three years

Yousef al-Obaidly, the chief executive of beIN, has written to all 20 Premier League while petitioning the governing bodies’ chief executive, Richard Masters.

“The danger of allowing the acquisition of a controlling or material interest (whether acquired directly or indirectly) in a major Premier League club by what is effectively the Saudi Arabian government cannot be ignored given the country's past and continuing illegal actions and their direct impact upon the commercial interests of the Premier League, its member clubs, its broadcast partners and football in general.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/german-football-plans-may-return-but-debate-rages-293964" hreflang="en">German football plans May return but debate rages</a>

“As a longstanding partner and huge investor in the Premier League, we urge you to consider carefully all the implications of doing so.”

He adds: “The legacy of the illegal service will continue to impact you going forward.

“When the Premier League season re-commences in the coming months, all of the league’s broadcasters’ content will continue to be readily and illegally available via the IPTV streaming functionality on the beoutQ set-top-boxes which were sold in significant quantities in Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA (the Middle East and North Africa) region.

“Furthermore – given the crippling economic effect that coronavirus is having on the sports industry – this is all happening at a time when football clubs need to protect their broadcast revenue the most.”

Saudi Arabia and Qatar have been under political dispute since 2017. 
&nbsp;

The Premier League and all the clubs have been urged to block the much-talked-about takeover of Newcastle United by its overseas TV partner beIN Sports. Newcastle United are on the verge of a £300m-plus takeover by Saudi-backed consortium PCP Capitals, involving Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The Premier League and all the clubs have been urged to block the much-talked-about takeover of Newcastle United by its overseas TV partner beIN Sports. Newcastle United are on the verge of a £300m-plus takeover by Saudi-backed consortium PCP Capitals, involving Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Magpies could be handed over to the consortium, involving financier Amanda Staveley, in the next couple of weeks given the Premier Leagues’ Owners and Directors’ Test is completed. However, Qatar-based broadcaster beIN Sports has said that Saudi Arabia should be held accountable for its involvement in a pirate TV network, which broadcasts Premier League matches illegally. The network, named beoutQ, first began live-streaming sporting events, illegally, in the year 2017. The Premier League has been among a number of organisations and sporting bodies who have asked Arabsat to stop providing a channel for a pirate network. ALSO READ: Dutch top flight likely over after government extends ban In July 2019, the Premier League said that it had spoken to nine law firms in Saudi Arabia, who simply refused to pursue a copyright complaint against beoutQ. BeIN Sports are Premier League’s biggest overseas broadcast partner with their deal costing £500million for three years Yousef al-Obaidly, the chief executive of beIN, has written to all 20 Premier League while petitioning the governing bodies’ chief executive, Richard Masters. “The danger of allowing the acquisition of a controlling or material interest (whether acquired directly or indirectly) in a major Premier League club by what is effectively the Saudi Arabian government cannot be ignored given the country's past and continuing illegal actions and their direct impact upon the commercial interests of the Premier League, its member clubs, its broadcast partners and football in general. ALSO READ: German football plans May return but debate rages “As a longstanding partner and huge investor in the Premier League, we urge you to consider carefully all the implications of doing so.” He adds: “The legacy of the illegal service will continue to impact you going forward. “When the Premier League season re-commences in the coming months, all of the league’s broadcasters’ content will continue to be readily and illegally available via the IPTV streaming functionality on the beoutQ set-top-boxes which were sold in significant quantities in Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA (the Middle East and North Africa) region. “Furthermore – given the crippling economic effect that coronavirus is having on the sports industry – this is all happening at a time when football clubs need to protect their broadcast revenue the most.” Saudi Arabia and Qatar have been under political dispute since 2017.

Premier League clubs urged to combine and block £300 million Newcastle United takeover

Serie A insisted Monday that they were committed to finishing the season despite reports seven clubs are against a return to action as the coronavirus pandemic continues to afflict Italy.

"The Lega Serie A Council that met today unanimously confirmed its intention to complete the 2019-2020 season, if the government allows it to take place," Italy's top flight said in a statement

It added that any resumption will take place "in accordance with regulations laid out by FIFA and UEFA" and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), and "in compliance with medical protocols to protect the players".

Brescia, Torino, Sampdoria, Udinese, SPAL, Genoa and Sardinian outfit Cagliari do not want to play because of the "incalculable risk" of restarting, according to reports in Italy.

Six of those clubs are situated in the north of Italy which has been hardest hit by a virus which has killed over 24,000 people.

No football has been played in Italy since March 9 with the current lockdown measures in the country extended to May 3.

Sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora will meet with FIGC officials midweek, but he warned he was not sure that Serie A teams can even resume training.

"I am not giving any assurances for the start of the championship or training on May 4, if the conditions for the country do not exist beforehand," Spadafora told Tg2 Post.

"Sport is not just football and it is not only Serie A," he added.

"I will evaluate very carefully, but this must not create the illusion that resuming training means resuming the championship."

Meanwhile, Torino's team doctor Rodolfo Tavana, who held the position of the Serie A's representative on the FIGC's medical commission,&nbsp;resigned on Monday.

Tavana was appointed to the commission to help formulate the protocol for the resumption of football.

Serie A insisted Monday that they were committed to finishing the season despite reports seven clubs are against a return to action as the coronavirus pandemic continues to afflict Italy.

Serie A insisted Monday that they were committed to finishing the season despite reports seven clubs are against a return to action as the coronavirus pandemic continues to afflict Italy. "The Lega Serie A Council that met today unanimously confirmed its intention to complete the 2019-2020 season, if the government allows it to take place," Italy's top flight said in a statement It added that any resumption will take place "in accordance with regulations laid out by FIFA and UEFA" and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), and "in compliance with medical protocols to protect the players". Brescia, Torino, Sampdoria, Udinese, SPAL, Genoa and Sardinian outfit Cagliari do not want to play because of the "incalculable risk" of restarting, according to reports in Italy. Six of those clubs are situated in the north of Italy which has been hardest hit by a virus which has killed over 24,000 people. No football has been played in Italy since March 9 with the current lockdown measures in the country extended to May 3. Sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora will meet with FIGC officials midweek, but he warned he was not sure that Serie A teams can even resume training. "I am not giving any assurances for the start of the championship or training on May 4, if the conditions for the country do not exist beforehand," Spadafora told Tg2 Post. "Sport is not just football and it is not only Serie A," he added. "I will evaluate very carefully, but this must not create the illusion that resuming training means resuming the championship." Meanwhile, Torino's team doctor Rodolfo Tavana, who held the position of the Serie A's representative on the FIGC's medical commission, resigned on Monday. Tavana was appointed to the commission to help formulate the protocol for the resumption of football.

Serie A commits to finishing season after virus lockdown

Barcelona are set to sell their title rights for one year in a bid to raise funds for the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. Interestingly, Barcelona’s home stadium, Camp Nou – one of the biggest stadiums in Europe with more than 99,000 seating capacity, has never had a title sponsor since it was inaugurated in 1957.

Barcelona vice-president Jordi Cardoner, who recovered after contracting the dreaded COVID-19, revealed that the club is providing very quick response to raise funds during an emergency situation. The Spanish giants had plans to sell the stadium’s title rights in the 2023-24 season in a hope to bring 300 million Euros for a 25-year-old contract to pay for the renovation of the stadium and other facilities.

“We want to send a universal message: For the first time someone will have the opportunity to put their name on Camp Nou and the revenues will go to all of humanity, not just Barca,” club vice president Jordi Cardoner was quoted as saying.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/contracts-exchanged-and-deposit-paid-newcastle-united-takeover-set-to-be-completed-in-blockbuster-move-293818" hreflang="en">Contracts exchanged and deposit paid: Newcastle United takeover set to be completed in blockbuster move</a>

“The initiative arose in an emergency situation. We think that we have to have a very quick response, putting our crown jewel at the service (of the fight).?”

Cardoner further said if possible sponsors for the one-year-deal want to include the prospect of a long-term deal then Barcelona would consider it while adding that the Blaugrana want to listen to offers with whom they could team up and provide more funds to combat the coronavirus.

“Camp Nou is sending out an S.O.S.,” Cardoner said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mesut-ozil-refuses-to-take-pay-cut-despite-being-highest-earner-at-arsenal-293800" hreflang="en">Mesut Ozil refuses to take pay-cut despite being highest earner at Arsenal</a>

“We are open to everything. We want to maximize economic participation and to ensure that the partners share our same social values.”

The stadium will maintain the name ‘Camp Nou’ in addition to including the sponsor, the club said.

After Barcelona finds a new sponsor, the decision will then have to be approved by a general assembly of club members of around 140,000 – which is likely to be held in October.

Meanwhile, more than 20,000 people have died in Spain, a death toll second only to the United States.&nbsp; 
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Barcelona are set to sell their title rights for one year in a bid to raise funds for the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. Interestingly, Barcelona’s home stadium, Camp Nou – one of the biggest stadiums in Europe with more than 99,000 seating capacity, has never had a title sponsor since it was inaugurated in 1957.

Barcelona are set to sell their title rights for one year in a bid to raise funds for the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. Interestingly, Barcelona’s home stadium, Camp Nou – one of the biggest stadiums in Europe with more than 99,000 seating capacity, has never had a title sponsor since it was inaugurated in 1957. Barcelona vice-president Jordi Cardoner, who recovered after contracting the dreaded COVID-19, revealed that the club is providing very quick response to raise funds during an emergency situation. The Spanish giants had plans to sell the stadium’s title rights in the 2023-24 season in a hope to bring 300 million Euros for a 25-year-old contract to pay for the renovation of the stadium and other facilities. “We want to send a universal message: For the first time someone will have the opportunity to put their name on Camp Nou and the revenues will go to all of humanity, not just Barca,” club vice president Jordi Cardoner was quoted as saying. ALSO READ: Contracts exchanged and deposit paid: Newcastle United takeover set to be completed in blockbuster move “The initiative arose in an emergency situation. We think that we have to have a very quick response, putting our crown jewel at the service (of the fight).?” Cardoner further said if possible sponsors for the one-year-deal want to include the prospect of a long-term deal then Barcelona would consider it while adding that the Blaugrana want to listen to offers with whom they could team up and provide more funds to combat the coronavirus. “Camp Nou is sending out an S.O.S.,” Cardoner said. ALSO READ: Mesut Ozil refuses to take pay-cut despite being highest earner at Arsenal “We are open to everything. We want to maximize economic participation and to ensure that the partners share our same social values.” The stadium will maintain the name ‘Camp Nou’ in addition to including the sponsor, the club said. After Barcelona finds a new sponsor, the decision will then have to be approved by a general assembly of club members of around 140,000 – which is likely to be held in October. Meanwhile, more than 20,000 people have died in Spain, a death toll second only to the United States.

Barcelona to sell title rights of Camp Nou to raise funds for COVID-19 battle

UEFA is optimistic about completing the domestic leagues by the end of August as it gears up for a meeting with all 55 associates on Tuesday. All of Europe’s top football officials will discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic with some of the clubs resuming training under strict restrictions.

There are further plans to present a recommendation on the fixture calendar by mid-May with a working group accessing all possible scenarios. A meeting by UEFA’s executive committee is also scheduled to be held on Thursday as the top officials are likely to discuss the leagues which want to end their respective season early.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-spanish-fa-agree-training-restart-protocol-293753" hreflang="en">La Liga, Spanish FA agree training restart protocol</a>

Furthermore, cancellation of leagues with UEFA’s approval could see clubs losing out on qualification for the Champions League and Europa League, as the final standings are determined by the league table.

Earlier in April, European leagues were told not to ‘abandon’ their leagues as officials revealed that they were working on plans to resume the season from July.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-commits-to-finishing-season-after-virus-lockdown-293752" hreflang="en">Serie A commits to finishing season after virus lockdown</a>

UEFA, the European Club Association (ECA) and European Leagues (EL) urged everyone to ‘walk united’ as they continue to tackle the rapidly increasing global spread of COVID-19.

There a proposal which would see UEFA Champions League final being pushed back by three months from its original scheduled period at the end of August. The UCL final was originally scheduled to be hosted by Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul on May 30. 
The Champions League final was due to take place at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul on May 30. 
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UEFA is optimistic about completing the domestic leagues by the end of August as it gears up for a meeting with all 55 associates on Tuesday. All of Europe’s top football officials will discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic with some of the clubs resuming training under strict restrictions.

UEFA is optimistic about completing the domestic leagues by the end of August as it gears up for a meeting with all 55 associates on Tuesday. All of Europe’s top football officials will discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic with some of the clubs resuming training under strict restrictions. There are further plans to present a recommendation on the fixture calendar by mid-May with a working group accessing all possible scenarios. A meeting by UEFA’s executive committee is also scheduled to be held on Thursday as the top officials are likely to discuss the leagues which want to end their respective season early. ALSO READ: La Liga, Spanish FA agree training restart protocol Furthermore, cancellation of leagues with UEFA’s approval could see clubs losing out on qualification for the Champions League and Europa League, as the final standings are determined by the league table. Earlier in April, European leagues were told not to ‘abandon’ their leagues as officials revealed that they were working on plans to resume the season from July. ALSO READ: Serie A commits to finishing season after virus lockdown UEFA, the European Club Association (ECA) and European Leagues (EL) urged everyone to ‘walk united’ as they continue to tackle the rapidly increasing global spread of COVID-19. There a proposal which would see UEFA Champions League final being pushed back by three months from its original scheduled period at the end of August. The UCL final was originally scheduled to be hosted by Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul on May 30. The Champions League final was due to take place at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul on May 30.

August deadline on agenda as UEFA gears up for meeting with 55 associations

Tottenham Hotspur's South Korean striker Son Heung-min began his three-week military training at a marines boot camp on Monday, a report said, with the Premier League on hold over the coronavirus pandemic.

All able-bodied South Korean men are obliged to serve in the military for nearly two years, making up the bulk of Seoul's 600,000-strong forces -- who face off against North Korea's army of 1.3 million.

But Son was among the South Korean footballers who earned an exemption by winning gold at the 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia.

The 27-year-old's Premier League season ended even before the coronavirus outbreak spread to Europe when he broke his arm against Aston Villa on February 16, and Spurs said he returned to South Korea for "personal reasons".

Son reported to a marines camp on the southern island of Jeju for his three-week basic training, Yonhap news agency reported.

A Yonhap photo showed Son walking past a military truck and soldiers, wearing a green sweatshirt, a black cap and a face mask.

"South Korean football star Son Heung-min enters the training facility of the 91st Battalion of the 9th Brigade of the Marine Corps," the caption read.

Son's agency had earlier urged fans to refrain from attending the venue over virus concerns.

"Son Heung-min is up for basic military training in April," his agency said on his official Facebook account this month.

"We have decided to not open to the public in active compliance with the government's measures on the COVID-19," it added.

Under the terms of his gold-winner's exemption, Son only needs to complete his basic training and perform around 500 hours of community service to satisfy his conscription obligation.

Basic training in the army is four weeks, but three weeks in the marines and navy.&nbsp;

The Premier League has been suspended since mid-March due to the coronavirus and no date has yet been set for a resumption.

Tottenham Hotspur's South Korean striker Son Heung-min began his three-week military training at a marines boot camp on Monday, a report said, with the Premier League on hold over the coronavirus pandemic.

Tottenham Hotspur's South Korean striker Son Heung-min began his three-week military training at a marines boot camp on Monday, a report said, with the Premier League on hold over the coronavirus pandemic. All able-bodied South Korean men are obliged to serve in the military for nearly two years, making up the bulk of Seoul's 600,000-strong forces -- who face off against North Korea's army of 1.3 million. But Son was among the South Korean footballers who earned an exemption by winning gold at the 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia. The 27-year-old's Premier League season ended even before the coronavirus outbreak spread to Europe when he broke his arm against Aston Villa on February 16, and Spurs said he returned to South Korea for "personal reasons". Son reported to a marines camp on the southern island of Jeju for his three-week basic training, Yonhap news agency reported. A Yonhap photo showed Son walking past a military truck and soldiers, wearing a green sweatshirt, a black cap and a face mask. "South Korean football star Son Heung-min enters the training facility of the 91st Battalion of the 9th Brigade of the Marine Corps," the caption read. Son's agency had earlier urged fans to refrain from attending the venue over virus concerns. "Son Heung-min is up for basic military training in April," his agency said on his official Facebook account this month. "We have decided to not open to the public in active compliance with the government's measures on the COVID-19," it added. Under the terms of his gold-winner's exemption, Son only needs to complete his basic training and perform around 500 hours of community service to satisfy his conscription obligation. Basic training in the army is four weeks, but three weeks in the marines and navy. The Premier League has been suspended since mid-March due to the coronavirus and no date has yet been set for a resumption.

Spurs' Son begins three-week military training: report

Brighton's Amex stadium is the latest British sports venue to be turned into a coronavirus testing centre, the Premier League club confirmed on Sunday.

The Tottenham Hotspur stadium and the home of English rugby, Twickenham, have also been converted into drive-through testing facilities as part of the British government's effort to increase testing for thousands more National Health Service (NHS) staff and other key workers.

"The centre was scheduled to see more than 50 NHS frontline workers on Saturday afternoon, and they will have the results of their tests within 48 hours. Within a few days, the site should reach its capacity of up to 1,000 tests a day," said Brighton chief executive Paul Barber.

"We have committed to do everything we can to assist the NHS and other key workers in this crisis.

"We have already opened up the doors of the training ground, as well as the stadium, to be used by the NHS, emergency services and local authority for training, storage or whatever they feel it can be used for in the fight against this pandemic."

The UK government has come under increasing pressure to ramp up its testing capability to help control the spread of COVID-19.

The official death toll in Britain soared by 888 on Saturday to 15,464.

Premier League matches have been suspended indefinitely due to the virus.

Even when games do return they are likely to be behind closed doors due to guidelines on social distancing.

The Premier League is examining proposals using a small number of neutral venues to play all the remaining 92 games of the season to minimise the number of medical, media and security personnel needed.

That would free up those stadiums being utilised for services to help fight the virus to fulfil that need for a longer period.

Testing is also likely to hold the key to whether the Premier League season can be completed at all.

Until widespread testing is available to the public, league officials are wary of draining resources by testing players with the aim of clearing them to return to action.&nbsp;

Brighton's Amex stadium is the latest British sports venue to be turned into a coronavirus testing centre, the Premier League club confirmed on Sunday. The Tottenham Hotspur stadium and the home of English rugby, Twickenham, have also been converted into drive-through testing facilities as part of the British government's effort to increase testing for thousands more National Health Service (NHS) staff and other key workers.

Brighton's Amex stadium is the latest British sports venue to be turned into a coronavirus testing centre, the Premier League club confirmed on Sunday. The Tottenham Hotspur stadium and the home of English rugby, Twickenham, have also been converted into drive-through testing facilities as part of the British government's effort to increase testing for thousands more National Health Service (NHS) staff and other key workers. "The centre was scheduled to see more than 50 NHS frontline workers on Saturday afternoon, and they will have the results of their tests within 48 hours. Within a few days, the site should reach its capacity of up to 1,000 tests a day," said Brighton chief executive Paul Barber. "We have committed to do everything we can to assist the NHS and other key workers in this crisis. "We have already opened up the doors of the training ground, as well as the stadium, to be used by the NHS, emergency services and local authority for training, storage or whatever they feel it can be used for in the fight against this pandemic." The UK government has come under increasing pressure to ramp up its testing capability to help control the spread of COVID-19. The official death toll in Britain soared by 888 on Saturday to 15,464. Premier League matches have been suspended indefinitely due to the virus. Even when games do return they are likely to be behind closed doors due to guidelines on social distancing. The Premier League is examining proposals using a small number of neutral venues to play all the remaining 92 games of the season to minimise the number of medical, media and security personnel needed. That would free up those stadiums being utilised for services to help fight the virus to fulfil that need for a longer period. Testing is also likely to hold the key to whether the Premier League season can be completed at all. Until widespread testing is available to the public, league officials are wary of draining resources by testing players with the aim of clearing them to return to action.

Brighton's stadium to become coronavirus testing centre

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire believes the Red Devils are on the right track towards contending for the Premier League title again.

United have not won the league since Alex Ferguson retired as manager in 2013 and were a mammoth 37 points behind leaders Liverpool when the Premier League season was put on hold due to coronavirus last month.

However, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men were on an 11-match unbeaten run before the shutdown with Maguire and Aaron Wan-Bissaka beginning to repay the lavish sums spent on them last summer and January signing Bruno Fernandes making an immediate impact.

"I knew when I first came to Manchester United that Ole said to me loads and loads it's a building process but we'll be where we want to be." Maguire told Sky Sports.

"There are plenty of aspects we need to improve to get to the top of where we want to be. We don't want to be challenging for this Champions League spot, we want to be challenging for titles.

"We know there's still a lot of improvement to get there, but we're on the right track and I'm sure eventually we will get there."

United sat fifth in the table when matches were suspended and still in the running for silverware in the FA Cup and Europa League.

Should the season be able to be completed in the coming months, Solskjaer's options could be strengthened by the return from injury of Marcus Rashford and Paul Pogba.

Pogba has been restricted to just eight appearances all season by a persistent ankle problem, but Maguire hopes the French World Cup winner and Fernandes can form a potent partnership in midfield.

"He's been brilliant since he's come in, off the field around the training ground, he's a leader and wants to win, everything he does he wants to win, you can tell he's been brought up with that attitude," Maguire added on Fernandes.

"He's just given us that little bit more life and creativity in the middle.

"We've got Paul to come back as well, who I'm sure will probably make himself (Fernandes) lift his game even more.

"We have a lot of competition in that centre midfield now, they know they have to be on their game to keep their spot, so I'm sure we'll see the benefit."

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire believes the Red Devils are on the right track towards contending for the Premier League title again. United have not won the league since Alex Ferguson retired as manager in 2013 and were a mammoth 37 points behind leaders Liverpool when the Premier League season was put on hold due to coronavirus last month.

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire believes the Red Devils are on the right track towards contending for the Premier League title again. United have not won the league since Alex Ferguson retired as manager in 2013 and were a mammoth 37 points behind leaders Liverpool when the Premier League season was put on hold due to coronavirus last month. However, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men were on an 11-match unbeaten run before the shutdown with Maguire and Aaron Wan-Bissaka beginning to repay the lavish sums spent on them last summer and January signing Bruno Fernandes making an immediate impact. "I knew when I first came to Manchester United that Ole said to me loads and loads it's a building process but we'll be where we want to be." Maguire told Sky Sports. "There are plenty of aspects we need to improve to get to the top of where we want to be. We don't want to be challenging for this Champions League spot, we want to be challenging for titles. "We know there's still a lot of improvement to get there, but we're on the right track and I'm sure eventually we will get there." United sat fifth in the table when matches were suspended and still in the running for silverware in the FA Cup and Europa League. Should the season be able to be completed in the coming months, Solskjaer's options could be strengthened by the return from injury of Marcus Rashford and Paul Pogba. Pogba has been restricted to just eight appearances all season by a persistent ankle problem, but Maguire hopes the French World Cup winner and Fernandes can form a potent partnership in midfield. "He's been brilliant since he's come in, off the field around the training ground, he's a leader and wants to win, everything he does he wants to win, you can tell he's been brought up with that attitude," Maguire added on Fernandes. "He's just given us that little bit more life and creativity in the middle. "We've got Paul to come back as well, who I'm sure will probably make himself (Fernandes) lift his game even more. "We have a lot of competition in that centre midfield now, they know they have to be on their game to keep their spot, so I'm sure we'll see the benefit."

Maguire confident Man Utd on course to compete for titles again

The financial squeeze put on Premier League clubs by the coronavirus crisis could be felt across the continent in the coming months as the well to fund massive transfer fees runs dry.

For each of the past four summers, Premier League clubs have flexed their financial muscle to splurge over £1 billion ($1.3 billion) on transfers.

That has helped spread the wealth of television contracts worth billions across Europe and crucially down the divisions to cash-strapped clubs in England.

Now even the world's richest league is facing economic meltdown.

Premier League matches have been suspended indefinitely with no return expected before mid-June at the earliest.

Broadcasters could be due a rebate worth a reported £762 million if the season is not completed and, even when the games do recommence, they are likely to be behind closed doors, quashing income from gate receipts.

Moreover, a number of major sponsors such as airlines and gambling companies have been just as badly hit by the COVID-19 shutdown, which is expected to lead to a curb on commercial revenue.

Rather than the usual arms race for talent, Premier League clubs are fretting about just meeting their wage bills for the next few months.

"Many clubs could be threatened by insolvency and transfer plans came to a standstill for most clubs because of the many uncertainties," said Matthias Seidel, founder of Transfermarkt, a website specialising in transfer values.

According to Transfermarkt, 1.8 billion euros ($2 billion) has already been wiped off the value of Premier League squads.

"There's no doubt the actual value of players right now has gone down in all squads," said Brighton owner Tony Bloom.

"How much less, I have no idea. It depends on how the next few months play out."

<h2>- 'Vultures and predators' -</h2>

Such uncertainty has led for calls to do away with transfers entirely to avoid the unseemly sight of clubs, who have asked staff to take pay cuts and in some cases relied on government money, spending money on new players.

"If you're trying to get 30 percent pay cuts from existing players, you may have to put a transfer embargo in place," former Manchester United captain Gary Neville told Sky Sports.

However, embargoes may only accelerate fears that clubs lower down the pyramid will not survive the crisis.

Proceeds from transfer sales are commonly used in the lower leagues to cover running costs and will be needed even more without the regular income of gate receipts to rely on.

"I think there will be significant transfer fee deflation," football finance expert Kieran Maguire told AFP.

"There will be a significant number of clubs that when some form of transfer market returns, they will be close to going out of business and therefore will accept fire sale prices.

"The vultures and predators will pick off good players for very modest fees."

The fear for those reliant on transfer fees, though, is that the damage has already been done.

Given the vast sums involved, transfer fees are very commonly paid over the course of a player's contract.

Based on accounts published to the end of the 2018/19 season, Premier League clubs owed £1.6 billion in outstanding transfer payments, £900 million of which was to foreign clubs.

Maguire warns of the domino effect whereby if one club fails to meet its transfer debt, it could spark a series of defaulted payments on other deals or even worse force clubs into insolvency.

"The concern is that financial problems in one league could spread throughout the industry just like the pandemic," he said.

Bundesliga chief executive Christian Seifert told the New York Times earlier this month that the transfer market will "collapse" and that "some leagues will understand that money is nothing that is coming automatically every month from heaven."

That may have been a slight on the Premier League's overindulgence on transfer fees.

But as the biggest spender, the economic earthquake felt by English football will ripple across Europe for some time to come.

The financial squeeze put on Premier League clubs by the coronavirus crisis could be felt across the continent in the coming months as the well to fund massive transfer fees runs dry.

The financial squeeze put on Premier League clubs by the coronavirus crisis could be felt across the continent in the coming months as the well to fund massive transfer fees runs dry. For each of the past four summers, Premier League clubs have flexed their financial muscle to splurge over £1 billion ($1.3 billion) on transfers. That has helped spread the wealth of television contracts worth billions across Europe and crucially down the divisions to cash-strapped clubs in England. Now even the world's richest league is facing economic meltdown. Premier League matches have been suspended indefinitely with no return expected before mid-June at the earliest. Broadcasters could be due a rebate worth a reported £762 million if the season is not completed and, even when the games do recommence, they are likely to be behind closed doors, quashing income from gate receipts. Moreover, a number of major sponsors such as airlines and gambling companies have been just as badly hit by the COVID-19 shutdown, which is expected to lead to a curb on commercial revenue. Rather than the usual arms race for talent, Premier League clubs are fretting about just meeting their wage bills for the next few months. "Many clubs could be threatened by insolvency and transfer plans came to a standstill for most clubs because of the many uncertainties," said Matthias Seidel, founder of Transfermarkt, a website specialising in transfer values. According to Transfermarkt, 1.8 billion euros ($2 billion) has already been wiped off the value of Premier League squads. "There's no doubt the actual value of players right now has gone down in all squads," said Brighton owner Tony Bloom. "How much less, I have no idea. It depends on how the next few months play out." - 'Vultures and predators' - Such uncertainty has led for calls to do away with transfers entirely to avoid the unseemly sight of clubs, who have asked staff to take pay cuts and in some cases relied on government money, spending money on new players. "If you're trying to get 30 percent pay cuts from existing players, you may have to put a transfer embargo in place," former Manchester United captain Gary Neville told Sky Sports. However, embargoes may only accelerate fears that clubs lower down the pyramid will not survive the crisis. Proceeds from transfer sales are commonly used in the lower leagues to cover running costs and will be needed even more without the regular income of gate receipts to rely on. "I think there will be significant transfer fee deflation," football finance expert Kieran Maguire told AFP. "There will be a significant number of clubs that when some form of transfer market returns, they will be close to going out of business and therefore will accept fire sale prices. "The vultures and predators will pick off good players for very modest fees." The fear for those reliant on transfer fees, though, is that the damage has already been done. Given the vast sums involved, transfer fees are very commonly paid over the course of a player's contract. Based on accounts published to the end of the 2018/19 season, Premier League clubs owed £1.6 billion in outstanding transfer payments, £900 million of which was to foreign clubs. Maguire warns of the domino effect whereby if one club fails to meet its transfer debt, it could spark a series of defaulted payments on other deals or even worse force clubs into insolvency. "The concern is that financial problems in one league could spread throughout the industry just like the pandemic," he said. Bundesliga chief executive Christian Seifert told the New York Times earlier this month that the transfer market will "collapse" and that "some leagues will understand that money is nothing that is coming automatically every month from heaven." That may have been a slight on the Premier League's overindulgence on transfer fees. But as the biggest spender, the economic earthquake felt by English football will ripple across Europe for some time to come.

Premier League's transfer market bubble set to burst

The coronavirus-delayed Chinese Super League (CSL) season is scheduled to begin in late June or early July, a club chairman says.

Suspended leagues across the world, including in Europe, will be watching the CSL with interest as an indicator of the challenges they face in relaunching their own competitions.

The campaign was supposed to start on February 22 but was indefinitely postponed by the pandemic, which emerged in China in December before spreading worldwide.

"Based on the assessment of the current situation, the new season will start at the end of June or beginning of July," said Guangzhou R&amp;F chairman Huang Shenghua, according to state media.

Huang said that the season will be able to take place in full with each team playing the alloted 30 matches.

The media reports did not indicate whether a formal announcement was expected from the Chinese Football Association.

China says that it has curbed coronavirus at home but is now concerned about a second wave of imported infections from people entering the country from overseas.

Marouane Fellaini, the former Manchester United midfielder, is the only known coronavirus case in the CSL.

He was released from hospital last week and is under further observation, although he was not seriously ill.

The coronavirus-delayed Chinese Super League (CSL) season is scheduled to begin in late June or early July, a club chairman says. Suspended leagues across the world, including in Europe, will be watching the CSL with interest as an indicator of the challenges they face in relaunching their own competitions.

The coronavirus-delayed Chinese Super League (CSL) season is scheduled to begin in late June or early July, a club chairman says. Suspended leagues across the world, including in Europe, will be watching the CSL with interest as an indicator of the challenges they face in relaunching their own competitions. The campaign was supposed to start on February 22 but was indefinitely postponed by the pandemic, which emerged in China in December before spreading worldwide. "Based on the assessment of the current situation, the new season will start at the end of June or beginning of July," said Guangzhou R&F chairman Huang Shenghua, according to state media. Huang said that the season will be able to take place in full with each team playing the alloted 30 matches. The media reports did not indicate whether a formal announcement was expected from the Chinese Football Association. China says that it has curbed coronavirus at home but is now concerned about a second wave of imported infections from people entering the country from overseas. Marouane Fellaini, the former Manchester United midfielder, is the only known coronavirus case in the CSL. He was released from hospital last week and is under further observation, although he was not seriously ill.

Chinese Super League to start by July: Club chairman

Qatar has detected three more coronavirus cases among workers on World Cup stadiums, organisers said Thursday, bringing the number of infections among those involved in 2022 tournament construction to eight.

The Gulf nation has reported seven deaths from the COVID-19 disease and 4,103 cases in total, announcing the first infections in stadium workers on Wednesday.

Building work for the stadiums and infrastructure to stage the tournament has continued through the crisis even as non-essential retail has been halted and mosques, parks and restaurants have closed.

"The Supreme Committee for Delivery &amp; Legacy (SC) has confirmed that two staff members who work for a SC contractor have tested positive for COVID-19," organisers said in a statement.&nbsp;

"In addition, six workers on SC projects have tested positive."

On Wednesday the SC said that staff at three of the seven stadiums being built from scratch for the 2022 tournament had been affected.

The SC was following health ministry guidance to respond to the cases and all those affected would continue to be paid and receive free healthcare, the statement added.

The timings of the competition, due to be held in November and December of 2022, remain unchanged by the coronavirus pandemic which has already forced the postponement of the European football championships and the Tokyo Olympics.&nbsp;

Qatar has detected three more coronavirus cases among workers on World Cup stadiums, organisers said Thursday, bringing the number of infections among those involved in 2022 tournament construction to eight.

Qatar has detected three more coronavirus cases among workers on World Cup stadiums, organisers said Thursday, bringing the number of infections among those involved in 2022 tournament construction to eight. The Gulf nation has reported seven deaths from the COVID-19 disease and 4,103 cases in total, announcing the first infections in stadium workers on Wednesday. Building work for the stadiums and infrastructure to stage the tournament has continued through the crisis even as non-essential retail has been halted and mosques, parks and restaurants have closed. "The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) has confirmed that two staff members who work for a SC contractor have tested positive for COVID-19," organisers said in a statement. "In addition, six workers on SC projects have tested positive." On Wednesday the SC said that staff at three of the seven stadiums being built from scratch for the 2022 tournament had been affected. The SC was following health ministry guidance to respond to the cases and all those affected would continue to be paid and receive free healthcare, the statement added. The timings of the competition, due to be held in November and December of 2022, remain unchanged by the coronavirus pandemic which has already forced the postponement of the European football championships and the Tokyo Olympics.

Qatar reports three new virus cases at World Cup sites

Premier League clubs remain committed to finishing the top-flight season, but did not set a June 30 deadline to complete the fixture list at their latest meeting on Friday.

With the Premier League postponed since March 13 due to the coronavirus, it had been suggested a firm closing date for the season needed to be imposed.

But the 20 clubs did not discuss wrapping up the remaining 92 Premier League fixtures by June 30 when they met on a conference call with league chiefs.

With fears that failure to finish the season could cost the Premier League more than £1 billion ($1.2 billion), clubs looked at various models for a potential return to action.

However, Britain is on lockdown until May 7 at the earliest to limit the spread of the pandemic, leaving English football to play a waiting game in the hope of an improvement in the health crisis.

A Premier League spokesman said a number of complex scenarios were being worked through.

"We are actively engaging with stakeholders, including broadcast partners, and our aim is to ensure we are in a position to resume playing when it is safe to do so and with the full support of the government," added the spokesman.

"The health and wellbeing of players, coaches, managers, club staff and supporters are our priority and the league will only restart when medical guidance allows.

"Today's shareholders' meeting provided an opportunity to discuss possible scheduling models. It remains our objective to complete the 2019/20 season but at this stage all dates are tentative while the impact of COVID-19 develops."

Premier League clubs remain committed to finishing the top-flight season, but did not set a June 30 deadline to complete the fixture list at their latest meeting on Friday.

Premier League clubs remain committed to finishing the top-flight season, but did not set a June 30 deadline to complete the fixture list at their latest meeting on Friday. With the Premier League postponed since March 13 due to the coronavirus, it had been suggested a firm closing date for the season needed to be imposed. But the 20 clubs did not discuss wrapping up the remaining 92 Premier League fixtures by June 30 when they met on a conference call with league chiefs. With fears that failure to finish the season could cost the Premier League more than £1 billion ($1.2 billion), clubs looked at various models for a potential return to action. However, Britain is on lockdown until May 7 at the earliest to limit the spread of the pandemic, leaving English football to play a waiting game in the hope of an improvement in the health crisis. A Premier League spokesman said a number of complex scenarios were being worked through. "We are actively engaging with stakeholders, including broadcast partners, and our aim is to ensure we are in a position to resume playing when it is safe to do so and with the full support of the government," added the spokesman. "The health and wellbeing of players, coaches, managers, club staff and supporters are our priority and the league will only restart when medical guidance allows. "Today's shareholders' meeting provided an opportunity to discuss possible scheduling models. It remains our objective to complete the 2019/20 season but at this stage all dates are tentative while the impact of COVID-19 develops."

Premier League clubs committed to finishing season, but no deadline set

Belarus is the only country in Europe still playing professional football matches with spectators in the stands. Even though the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a major shrunk in the live crowd, people are still heading to stadiums to watch their favourite football clubs in action. Empty seats could be a major turn off during football matches but the Belarusian clubs have found a way to hide those empty seats and fill it with fans – by placing dummies.&nbsp;

<img alt="Coronavirus outbreak: Belarus postpones women's soccer but men's league continues" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="69390980-37af-487e-9cda-ac5f3270b682" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1QK1NF.jpg" />

The start of women’s football season in Belarus has been delayed by fears that the players may have gotten exposed to the COVID-19 but the men’s league continues to drive in full flow. The women’s league was scheduled to start with the 2020 season on Thursday (April 16) but the Belarus soccer federation suspended it ‘until further notice’. The federation added that ‘several’ players had contact with ‘possible carries’ of the coronavirus.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/humour-most-important-in-getting-through-difficult-situations-says-james-neesham-293084" hreflang="en">Humour most important in getting through difficult situations, says James Neesham</a>

Dummies have replaced fans, face masks are being used to fulfil the emotions that a crowd brings with itself. But the question remains, is it worth risking the lives of possibly hundreds of people attending the game? What about the footballers, who may contract the virus?&nbsp;

<img alt="Coronavirus outbreak: Belarus postpones women's soccer but men's league continues" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ab10f897-dea0-4814-ba04-e4df318fbf78" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1QK1NT.jpg" />

Even though the Belarusian league has attracted fans from others countries in lockdown and signed new foreign TV deals, as per reports, does it really fulfil the void of absolutely no live sports during the time when millions of people are struggling to cope with the dreaded COVID-19, worldwide?&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/qatar-reports-three-new-virus-cases-at-world-cup-sites-293081" hreflang="en">Qatar reports three new virus cases at World Cup sites</a>

<img alt="Coronavirus outbreak: Belarus postpones women's soccer but men's league continues" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="be957170-4c7b-413a-a601-c6031fa465e3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1QK1N1.jpg" />

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has strictly opposed strict lockdown measures while playing an ice hockey game in front of spectators in the month of March. Whereas Sports and Tourism Minister Sergei Kovalchuk defended the move by saying that no one is forcing people to come and watch live matches.

<img alt="Coronavirus outbreak: Belarus postpones women's soccer but men's league continues" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="237e46b6-106e-4a53-a24d-fcc0dc4d2b67" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1QK1S8.jpg" />

“There is no basis to close down the championship. Nowadays, the number of fans has shrunk by more than 70 per cent," Kovalchuk said. "No one is forcing anyone to go to the stadium. You can go, or not go," Sports and Tourism Minister Kovalchuk said.

Belarus has recorded 4,779 cases of the COVID-19 as of Friday with 42 deaths. But as the bloodbath continues, the question remains, is holding sporting event&nbsp;really worth it, at the moment?

 
&nbsp;

Belarus is the only country in Europe still playing professional football matches with spectators in the stands. Even though the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a major shrunk in the live crowd, people are still heading to stadiums to watch their favourite football clubs in action.

Belarus is the only country in Europe still playing professional football matches with spectators in the stands. Even though the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a major shrunk in the live crowd, people are still heading to stadiums to watch their favourite football clubs in action. Empty seats could be a major turn off during football matches but the Belarusian clubs have found a way to hide those empty seats and fill it with fans – by placing dummies. The start of women’s football season in Belarus has been delayed by fears that the players may have gotten exposed to the COVID-19 but the men’s league continues to drive in full flow. The women’s league was scheduled to start with the 2020 season on Thursday (April 16) but the Belarus soccer federation suspended it ‘until further notice’. The federation added that ‘several’ players had contact with ‘possible carries’ of the coronavirus. ALSO READ: Humour most important in getting through difficult situations, says James Neesham Dummies have replaced fans, face masks are being used to fulfil the emotions that a crowd brings with itself. But the question remains, is it worth risking the lives of possibly hundreds of people attending the game? What about the footballers, who may contract the virus? Even though the Belarusian league has attracted fans from others countries in lockdown and signed new foreign TV deals, as per reports, does it really fulfil the void of absolutely no live sports during the time when millions of people are struggling to cope with the dreaded COVID-19, worldwide? ALSO READ: Qatar reports three new virus cases at World Cup sites Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has strictly opposed strict lockdown measures while playing an ice hockey game in front of spectators in the month of March. Whereas Sports and Tourism Minister Sergei Kovalchuk defended the move by saying that no one is forcing people to come and watch live matches. “There is no basis to close down the championship. Nowadays, the number of fans has shrunk by more than 70 per cent," Kovalchuk said. "No one is forcing anyone to go to the stadium. You can go, or not go," Sports and Tourism Minister Kovalchuk said. Belarus has recorded 4,779 cases of the COVID-19 as of Friday with 42 deaths. But as the bloodbath continues, the question remains, is holding sporting event really worth it, at the moment?

Fans and dummies: How Belarus is conducting live football matches amid COVID-19 pandemic

The Premier League is set to meet on Friday with an increasing number of football clubs wanting the season to end by June 30 due to the rising concerns about players’ contracts. The top agenda of the meeting would be to find a way to conclude the 2019/20 season before June 30, which has been suspended since mid-March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Many clubs are still supporting a conclusion of the season despite the UK struggling with the dreaded coronavirus. Thus far, around 90,000 positive cases have been reported from the UK but that hasn’t affected many clubs’ take to finish the season rather than declare it null and void.&nbsp;

The major reason behind the clubs wanting to end the season before June 30 is due to the contracts of players which will be ending in the month of June and out-of-contract and loan players may not want to extend their contract and simply walk away from the club.

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One Premier League club owner said: "Some clubs want the season to finish by the end of June. How can it be fair for European places and relegation to be decided by depleted squads?”

However, no solid outcome is expected from the meeting on Friday as the season will only resume when the government deems it safe. Even if the league is resumed, the games are most likely to be played behind closed doors.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/postponed-tokyo-olympics-to-kickstart-japan-economy-ioc-292948" hreflang="en">Postponed Tokyo Olympics 'to kickstart' Japan economy: IOC</a>

One Premier League owner said: "The meeting will be about financial survival and if and when we play games or abandon the season. Sadly, the season could still be abandoned depending on government rules."

Most of the Premier League clubs have nine matches left to be played including the leaders Liverpool, who had a massive 25-point advantage before the league was suspended last month in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak in the UK. 
&nbsp;

The Premier League is set to meet on Friday with an increasing number of football clubs wanting the season to end by June 30 due to the rising concerns about players’ contracts.

The Premier League is set to meet on Friday with an increasing number of football clubs wanting the season to end by June 30 due to the rising concerns about players’ contracts. The top agenda of the meeting would be to find a way to conclude the 2019/20 season before June 30, which has been suspended since mid-March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many clubs are still supporting a conclusion of the season despite the UK struggling with the dreaded coronavirus. Thus far, around 90,000 positive cases have been reported from the UK but that hasn’t affected many clubs’ take to finish the season rather than declare it null and void. The major reason behind the clubs wanting to end the season before June 30 is due to the contracts of players which will be ending in the month of June and out-of-contract and loan players may not want to extend their contract and simply walk away from the club. ALSO READ: Bayern star Suele wary of Bundesliga returning too soon One Premier League club owner said: "Some clubs want the season to finish by the end of June. How can it be fair for European places and relegation to be decided by depleted squads?” However, no solid outcome is expected from the meeting on Friday as the season will only resume when the government deems it safe. Even if the league is resumed, the games are most likely to be played behind closed doors. ALSO READ: Postponed Tokyo Olympics 'to kickstart' Japan economy: IOC One Premier League owner said: "The meeting will be about financial survival and if and when we play games or abandon the season. Sadly, the season could still be abandoned depending on government rules." Most of the Premier League clubs have nine matches left to be played including the leaders Liverpool, who had a massive 25-point advantage before the league was suspended last month in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak in the UK.

Money over health? Premier League clubs set to meet as many teams push for June 30 season end

Bournemouth became the latest Premier League club to reverse a decision to apply for financial assistance from Britain's furlough financial aid package on Tuesday.

With vast swathes of British industry shut down because of the coronavirus, the UK government launched a scheme that sees 80 percent of wages up to a maximum of £2,500 a month ($3,100, 2,850 euros) guaranteed during the economic crisis caused by the pandemic.

But Premier League clubs faced a huge backlash for trying to utilise the scheme for non-playing staff without reducing the much larger salaries of their highly-paid footballers.

Champions-elect Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur both went back on plans to take advantage of the furlough scheme following a public outcry and south coast club Bournemouth have now made a similar U-turn.

A Bournemouth statement said their intentions were "well-placed" but added: "We are aware of criticisms levelled at Premier League clubs applying for this scheme.&nbsp;

"We have listened to our supporters and have reversed our decision to furlough these employees...We will not be applying for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.&nbsp;

"Our continuing thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this virus."

Bournemouth became the latest Premier League club to reverse a decision to apply for financial assistance from Britain's furlough financial aid package on Tuesday.

Bournemouth became the latest Premier League club to reverse a decision to apply for financial assistance from Britain's furlough financial aid package on Tuesday. With vast swathes of British industry shut down because of the coronavirus, the UK government launched a scheme that sees 80 percent of wages up to a maximum of £2,500 a month ($3,100, 2,850 euros) guaranteed during the economic crisis caused by the pandemic. But Premier League clubs faced a huge backlash for trying to utilise the scheme for non-playing staff without reducing the much larger salaries of their highly-paid footballers. Champions-elect Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur both went back on plans to take advantage of the furlough scheme following a public outcry and south coast club Bournemouth have now made a similar U-turn. A Bournemouth statement said their intentions were "well-placed" but added: "We are aware of criticisms levelled at Premier League clubs applying for this scheme. "We have listened to our supporters and have reversed our decision to furlough these employees...We will not be applying for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. "Our continuing thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this virus."

Bournemouth latest Premier League club in furlough U-turn

The Asian Football Confederation announced Tuesday the indefinite postponement because of the coronavirus of all matches scheduled for May and June, plunging the AFC Champions League into further disarray.

The region's premier club competition was put on hold in March as the pandemic spread, and the latest reshuffle means the 32-team group stage will have to be completed in July before the already-postponed knock-out rounds start a month later.

"Following the continued preventive measures and travel restrictions put in place by several governments, the Asian Football Confederation has decided today to postpone all matches and competitions scheduled to take place in May and June until further notice," an AFC statement said.

"As one of the first confederations in world football to undertake precautionary measures in light of the COVID-19 outbreak, the latest decision reinforces the AFC's commitment to ensure the safety and wellbeing of players, participating teams, officials, fans and all stakeholders."

Less than two of the six rounds of group-stage matches have been completed so far, meaning the competition will face severe congestion even if it returns in July.

The extended shutdown also affects the two-legged women's Olympic qualifying play-off between China and South Korea, which had already been moved to June 1 and 9.&nbsp;

June qualifiers for the men's 2022 World Cup and 2023 Asian Cup had already been postponed.

Football was one of the first sports affected by travel restrictions prompted by the coronavirus, which has now forced the blanket stoppage of professional sporting events worldwide.

The Asian Football Confederation announced Tuesday the indefinite postponement because of the coronavirus of all matches scheduled for May and June, plunging the AFC Champions League into further disarray.

The Asian Football Confederation announced Tuesday the indefinite postponement because of the coronavirus of all matches scheduled for May and June, plunging the AFC Champions League into further disarray. The region's premier club competition was put on hold in March as the pandemic spread, and the latest reshuffle means the 32-team group stage will have to be completed in July before the already-postponed knock-out rounds start a month later. "Following the continued preventive measures and travel restrictions put in place by several governments, the Asian Football Confederation has decided today to postpone all matches and competitions scheduled to take place in May and June until further notice," an AFC statement said. "As one of the first confederations in world football to undertake precautionary measures in light of the COVID-19 outbreak, the latest decision reinforces the AFC's commitment to ensure the safety and wellbeing of players, participating teams, officials, fans and all stakeholders." Less than two of the six rounds of group-stage matches have been completed so far, meaning the competition will face severe congestion even if it returns in July. The extended shutdown also affects the two-legged women's Olympic qualifying play-off between China and South Korea, which had already been moved to June 1 and 9. June qualifiers for the men's 2022 World Cup and 2023 Asian Cup had already been postponed. Football was one of the first sports affected by travel restrictions prompted by the coronavirus, which has now forced the blanket stoppage of professional sporting events worldwide.

Asian football body extends virus shutdown indefinitely

Football fans and concert-goers could be barred from seeing their favourite teams and bands play live in Germany for 18 months due to the coronavirus, according to a science expert.

Keeping Germany's stadiums and music venues closed until well into 2021 "would certainly be very wise" according to Gerald Haug, president of the Leopoldina Academy of Sciences, which advises Angela Merkel's government on measures to combat the virus.

In an interview aired by broadcaster ARD on Monday, Haug added that "as to whether it will last a year and a half, we have to wait and see - there are also more optimistic assessments of the situation.

"But it will certainly last several months more, it could go up to a year and a half."

The German Football League (DFL) suspended all Bundesliga matches on March 13 until at least April 30.

A decision on whether football can resume in early May, most likely in empty stadiums with fans locked out, has been pushed back a week until April 23, the DFL announced Tuesday.

The DFL would need the go-ahead from the health authorities for leagues to resume.

Having been closed since mid-March, concert halls and sports venues across Germany remain shut until further notice.

The Leopoldina Academy has advocated a "step-by-step" return to normal conditions if the figures for new contaminations "stabilise at a low level" and if "hygiene measures are maintained".

Just under 3,000 people have so far died due to the coronavirus in Germany.

Football fans and concert-goers could be barred from seeing their favourite teams and bands play live in Germany for 18 months due to the coronavirus, according to a science expert.

Football fans and concert-goers could be barred from seeing their favourite teams and bands play live in Germany for 18 months due to the coronavirus, according to a science expert. Keeping Germany's stadiums and music venues closed until well into 2021 "would certainly be very wise" according to Gerald Haug, president of the Leopoldina Academy of Sciences, which advises Angela Merkel's government on measures to combat the virus. In an interview aired by broadcaster ARD on Monday, Haug added that "as to whether it will last a year and a half, we have to wait and see - there are also more optimistic assessments of the situation. "But it will certainly last several months more, it could go up to a year and a half." The German Football League (DFL) suspended all Bundesliga matches on March 13 until at least April 30. A decision on whether football can resume in early May, most likely in empty stadiums with fans locked out, has been pushed back a week until April 23, the DFL announced Tuesday. The DFL would need the go-ahead from the health authorities for leagues to resume. Having been closed since mid-March, concert halls and sports venues across Germany remain shut until further notice. The Leopoldina Academy has advocated a "step-by-step" return to normal conditions if the figures for new contaminations "stabilise at a low level" and if "hygiene measures are maintained". Just under 3,000 people have so far died due to the coronavirus in Germany.

German venues should stay shut for 18 months: expert

Sportspersons have taken to unorthodox ways to train indoors as almost the entire world continues to remain under lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic. Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo, who is spending time with family at home in Funchal, Portugal weeks after being forced to self-isolate, found a new way to train indoors in a bid to keep himself fit for the resumption of footballing season.&nbsp;

In a video posted by Ronaldo on his Instagram feed, the Portuguese stalwart was seen doing crunches when his children Eva and Mateo decided to disrupt his training regime. Spontaneous as always, Ronaldo asked them to help him complete his crunches-set but as the former continued with his workout, the twins clambered on top of him.

Ronaldo, who has set a benchmark in the world of fitness, turned their kids into weights and lifted them up, turn by turn, to complete a single-handed lift and two-handed lift sets while enjoying a gala time with his children.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/B-6_3FugRaE/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Kids, let the Dad do his work #stayhome #stayactive</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cristiano/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Cristiano Ronaldo</a> (@cristiano) on <time datetime="2020-04-13T12:57:43+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Apr 13, 2020 at 5:57am PDT</time>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/usain-bolt-goes-viral-with-social-distancing-olympic-photo-292407" hreflang="en">Usain Bolt goes viral with 'social distancing' Olympic photo</a>

Super dad, Ronaldo, in the video, showed how to strike a perfect balance to keep kids happy while not compromising on his workout schedule.&nbsp; 
Ronaldo has been training indoors in his mansion in Funchal and the former Manchester United forward has kept his fans engaged by posting his workout photographs and videos. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was in red-hot form before the coronavirus outbreak was reported in Italy.&nbsp;

Ronaldo has scored 21 goals for Juventus in Serie A including seven penalties and is second to Ciro Immobile (27) in the race for the Serie A top-scorer. 
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Sportspersons have taken to unorthodox ways to train indoors as almost the entire world continues to remain under lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic. Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo, who is spending time with family at home in Funchal, Portugal weeks after being forced to self-isolate, found a new way to train indoors in a bid to keep himself fit for the resumption of footballing season.

Sportspersons have taken to unorthodox ways to train indoors as almost the entire world continues to remain under lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic. Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo, who is spending time with family at home in Funchal, Portugal weeks after being forced to self-isolate, found a new way to train indoors in a bid to keep himself fit for the resumption of footballing season. In a video posted by Ronaldo on his Instagram feed, the Portuguese stalwart was seen doing crunches when his children Eva and Mateo decided to disrupt his training regime. Spontaneous as always, Ronaldo asked them to help him complete his crunches-set but as the former continued with his workout, the twins clambered on top of him. Ronaldo, who has set a benchmark in the world of fitness, turned their kids into weights and lifted them up, turn by turn, to complete a single-handed lift and two-handed lift sets while enjoying a gala time with his children. ALSO READ: Barca announce legal action against ex-director who made 'corruption' allegations View this post on Instagram Kids, let the Dad do his work #stayhome #stayactive A post shared by Cristiano Ronaldo (@cristiano) on Apr 13, 2020 at 5:57am PDT × ALSO READ: Usain Bolt goes viral with 'social distancing' Olympic photo Super dad, Ronaldo, in the video, showed how to strike a perfect balance to keep kids happy while not compromising on his workout schedule. Ronaldo has been training indoors in his mansion in Funchal and the former Manchester United forward has kept his fans engaged by posting his workout photographs and videos. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was in red-hot form before the coronavirus outbreak was reported in Italy. Ronaldo has scored 21 goals for Juventus in Serie A including seven penalties and is second to Ciro Immobile (27) in the race for the Serie A top-scorer.

Watch: Cristiano Ronaldo turns 'super dad', uses kids as weights during home workout!

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