Top- flight clubs in fans plea

PREMIER League clubs are urging the Government to give the go- ahead for fans to return in just a fortnight.

The 20 clubs met yesterday to discuss a way to get supporters back from October 1 and insisted stadiums will be safe.

The Premier League said: “Taking into account the high safety standards which will be set by the Premier League in conjunction with the relevant public authorities, the League and clubs urge

the Government to remain committed to the October 1 date for the controlled return of fans to sporting venues.”

It comes amid concern from the Government, who have already pushed shed back on test events and limited numbers to just 1,000 fans. But top- flight bosses s have warned the loss of gate revenue nue is “having a significant impact” and claimed grounds will be “biosecure, safe environments for fans across the League.”

The Government will now decide whether to allow Premier League clubs to let fans back in as planned but, amid local lockdowns and rising infection rates, there are also transport concerns. Meanwhile, the League have secured a new media deal in China after the collapse of the £ 564m TV d deal with PPTV earlier this month. They have now signed a deal with digital broadcaster Tencent. League chief executive Richard Masters, above, said: “We and our clubs have an extremely passionate fan base in China and are looking forward to engaging with fans in new ways over the coming season.”