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City councils

Liverpool and Everton Hope to Host Behind-Closed-Doors Games at Anfield and Goodison

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson believes it's possible for the city's stadiums to host behind-closed-doors games, stating that collaboration between the council, Premier League, police, and fan groups is essential. The decision is being reconsidered after over half of top-flight clubs rebelled against the idea of playing at neutral venues. Everton and Liverpool fan groups have expressed support for exploring this option, with Spirit of Shankly's Joe Blott pointing out that there's no evidence to suggest football fans would engage in irresponsible behavior. The Premier League is awaiting further guidance from the National Police Chiefs' Council before making a decision.

Key Takeaways:

  • Mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson believes that behind-closed-doors games can be hosted at Anfield and Goodison, but requires collaboration between the council, Premier League, police, and fan groups.
  • The decision to play games at neutral venues has been reconsidered after top-flight clubs expressed opposition.
  • The Premier League is waiting for guidance from the National Police Chiefs' Council before making a decision.
  • Fan groups from both Liverpool and Everton are in support of exploring this option, citing a lack of evidence to suggest irresponsible behavior.
  • Deputy chief constable Mark Roberts has softened his stance on the issue, following talks with Mayor Anderson and the government.
  • The government has stated that professional sports can return, behind closed doors, on June 1 at the earliest.
  • The Premier League is over a month away from resuming games, with clubs yet to receive a date for training.

Statistics:

  • 322 people will be allowed inside grounds for the resumed Bundesliga season.
  • Over half of top-flight clubs rebelled against the idea of playing at neutral venues.
  • The Premier League may follow Germany's lead on limiting the number of spectators.
  • The proposed date for resuming Premier League games behind closed doors is still uncertain.

Sources:

  • [Liverpool City Council]
  • [The Premier League]
  • [BBC]
  • [ECHO]
  • [National Police Chiefs' Council]
  • [West Derby MP Ian Byrne]
  • [Spirit of Shankly]

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