Sheffield United may have to play all their remaining Premier League matches away from South Yorkshire, reports the Independent.
As part of a new plan to conclude the 2019/20 season, the proposal is for the 20 teams to go into isolated “World Cup style” camps.
Club staff and players would have to confine themselves in hotels, away from their families, until the 92 remaining fixtures are completed. This is similar to the setup during international tournaments.
These camps would most likely be located in London or the Midlands. There would be full quarantine conditions and testing.
The belief is that this would reduce the risk of contracting Covid-19.
SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
Would Sheffield United games be played away from Yorkshire too?
(Photo by Ben Early – AMA/Getty Images)
Games would more than likely also be played either in London or the Midlands. However, there is the possibility that sides could use their training grounds as venues.
What is almost certain is that regular stadiums will not be used. Matches will be played behind closed doors as well, with the whole thing set up as a major TV event.
Fixtures would be held in June and July when the coronavirus pandemic curve in the UK is likely to have flattened. A few games will be held each day during the summer months and be broadcast live.
It means that outside broadcast crew, along with officials, would also have to be confined in quarantine camps similar to those of the clubs.
It’s believed that the prospect of finishing top flight football in England is getting increased government backing. That is because it is viewed as a morale boost for a public in lockdown.
Not only that, but it would help support a number of industries hit by the coronavirus outbreak – such as gambling and advertising.
The Blades could still return and finish their final ten matches. But don’t expect them to be played anywhere near Bramall Lane.
