Premier League Games to be Moved to Neutral Venues Amid Football Policing Concerns

Strategic Insights -

As concerns over policing and potential fan disorder escalate, several high-profile Premier League matches have been earmarked for relocation to neutral venues. With Liverpool on the cusp of securing the title, Merseyside and Greater Manchester Police have weighed in on the issue, highlighting the challenges of hosting games amidst the ongoing pandemic. The police forces have indicated that some matches may be moved to safer locations, such as stadiums outside of their jurisdictions, to minimize risks.

Key Takeaways:

  • At least five top-flight matches have been identified for possible relocation to neutral venues, including Newcastle United's trip to Manchester City and the Merseyside derby.
  • Merseyside Police has stated that it has no objections to hosting games at Goodison Park or Anfield in relation to crime and disorder, citing a good working relationship with the clubs and their fan groups.
  • Greater Manchester Police is still assessing the situation and has not made a final decision on whether to move high-risk games from its jurisdiction.
  • Assistant Chief Constable Rob Carden from Merseyside Police emphasized that decisions regarding public health risks are made by the Government and Public Health England.
  • Assistant Chief Constable Nick Bailey from Greater Manchester Police stated that a final decision will be made by the Safety Advisory Group (SAG) in due course, with GMP supporting the outcome.

Statistics:

  • At least 5 Premier League matches are at risk of being relocated to neutral venues.
  • 3 high-risk games in the Greater Manchester Police area are being reassessed for potential relocation.
  • Merseyside Police has a good working relationship with Everton and Liverpool, with no objections to hosting games at their respective grounds.
  • Greater Manchester Police is working with clubs and the Safety Advisory Group to assess the feasibility of hosting high-risk matches.

Sources:

  • The Liverpool Echo (assistant chief constable Rob Carden Statement)
  • The Liverpool Echo (assistant chief constable Nick Bailey Statement)