Premier League can’t stop players covering mouths

THE Premier League are powerless to stop players and coaches putting their hands over their mouths when talking during matches. The growing trend, with stars trying to prevent what they are saying going public, has drawn criticism from supporters and angered broadcasters. It is understood broadcasters are yet to complain to the league, but a Sky source said it is only a matter of time. ‘It’s infuriating,’ they said. ‘I would imagine conversations about it will take place soon because it’s angering more and more people. We pay around £13million a match and want to give the viewers the full experience. It’s blatant and it should stop. I can’t imagine we are missing out on life-changing pearls of wisdom but it is the principle. This is entertainment.’ The Premier League declined to comment, but a source there said: ‘It’s a situation in which we are pretty much powerless. ‘Realistically, there is nothing we can do — and now we have managers doing it, it makes it even harder.’ The matter was discussed on BBC Radio 5 Live earlier this week. ‘Barcelona players started it,’ said Arsenal legend Ian Wright. ‘It is so annoying.’ Wigan defender Alex Bruce added: ‘It drives me mad. Players at the end of games talking to each other putting their hands over their mouths. What’s going on, lads?’