Premier League blocks travel to red-list nations
PREMIER League clubs will not release players for international matches played next month in countries on the UK Government’s red list.
The Premier League said in a statement that the decision by its clubs, reached “reluctantly but unanimously”, was one it “strongly supported” and that it applied to nearly 60 players from 19 clubs who are due to travel to 26 red-list countries.
The statement added: “This follows FIFA’S current position not to extend its temporary release exception for players required to quarantine on their return from international duty.
“Extensive discussions have taken place with both the FA and the Government to find a solution, but due to ongoing public health concerns relating to incoming travellers from red-list countries, no exemption has been granted.
“If required to quarantine on return from red-list countries, not only would players’ welfare and fitness be significantly impacted, but they would also be unavailable to prepare for and play in two Premier League match rounds, a UEFA club competition match day and the third round of the EFL Cup.
“This period takes into consideration 10 days of hotel quarantine on return to England but does not include any additional time that would be required for players to regain match fitness.”
Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said: “Premier League clubs have always supported their players’ desires to represent their countries – this is a matter of pride for all concerned.
“However, clubs have reluctantly but rightly come to the conclusion that it would be entirely unreasonable to release players under these new circumstances.
“Quarantine requirements mean that players’ welfare and fitness will be significantly impacted.
“We understand the challenges that exist in the international match calendar and remain open to workable solutions.”
The current Government red list includes large parts of South American and Africa, as well as Turkey and several Caribbean islands.
Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce was among those who had voiced their concerns over the potential of players travelling.
Bruce suggested it would be “highly unlikely” that Paraguay forward Miguel Almiron would be allowed to travel to South America for World Cup qualifiers next month.
The Egyptian Football Association had already confirmed that Liverpool will not be allowing Mohamed Salah to join up with his country’s squad for their clash with Angola in Cairo.
Liverpool also have three Brazilians in Alisson Becker, Fabinho and Roberto Firmino who could be affected and Bruce around 60 players throughout the Premier League would have been impacted.