After an absence of 100 days due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Premier League returns tonight with two games kicking off the action.
Aston Villa and Sheffield United will play the first game, while Manchester City and Arsenal will contest the second game.
The Premier League was given the go ahead to return after infection levels in the UK started to drop and lockdown regulations were slightly eased. Strict measures have been put in place though, to ensure the safety of all involved during the resumption of the league.
- All matches behind closed doors, with number of key people allowed inside the stadium limited to 300.
- Stadiums divided into three zones – red (includes pitch and technical areas), amber (stands) and green (stand concourses) – with restrictions on who is allowed to enter each.
- Teams able to make five substitutions, rather than three, in each match and able to name nine substitutes instead of the usual seven.
- Staggered entry on to pitch for players and staff and no handshakes before kick-off. Deep cleaning of corner flags, goalposts, substitution boards and match balls before and after each fixture.
- Extra disinfection, such as of the substitution board after it is used, likely during matches and at half-time.
- Medical protocols stipulate how squads and coaching staff must travel to and from games, observing social distancing.
- Post-match broadcast interviews will take place pitchside with press conferences conducted virtually.
- VAR will continue to be in operation.
Are you a Premier League fan? What are you most looking forward to seeing when the league resumes?
Who do you think will get relegated?
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