CLUBS LOSE MILLIONS ON SCRAPPED TOURS

PREMIER LEAGUE clubs stand to lose millions for the second summer in a row, with money-spinning tours already off the agenda. Sportsmail understands a number of leading sides have accepted that once again they will not be travelling abroad in pre-season. One Big Six club is believed to have discussed contingency plans for a tour of the British Isles but decided even that is unlikely at this stage. While it is hoped huge numbers of the UK population will be vaccinated by preseason’s traditional mid-July start date, uncertainty over travel restrictions have already led most to accept defeat. The move will dismay thousands of overseas fans, along with commercial and television partners, with the leading sides set to miss out more than most. Clubs may also have to face letting down existing sponsors, and could be hit with penalty payments. While six months remain until clubs would normally jet abroad, the trips need extensive planning and it is not thought that throwing resources at an operation which may well be deemed logistically impossible is a wise move. Last summer, Manchester United were due to visit India and Asia, Chelsea had planned a trip to the USA, while Manchester City were looking at options further afield, including South Africa. Tottenham had also planned to go to Asia, with Liverpool expecting a number of high-profile games in Europe and potentially a journey to the east coast of the USA.