May dates altered to allow fans

THE Premier League have changed their fixture list to allow each club to play one game in front of their own supporters — but no away fans will be admitted. Officials have now confirmed to clubs that the schedule will be readjusted so every team can play a home fixture in front of a crowd before the end of the campaign. The competition had also wanted travelling supporters to be present for the final two rounds of matches. However, as Sportsmail revealed, the proposal left some of their sides up in arms amid concerns over social distancing and travelling during the pandemic. And yesterday clubs were told that the idea would not be pursued. As expected, round 36 midweek matches scheduled for May 11 and 12 will be put back to the weekend of May 15 and 16. Round 37 matches will now take place on May 18 and 19, which pushes them beyond the May 17 date currently set for the return of fans in limited numbers. The final matches of the season remain on Sunday, May 23. Gates will be limited to either 10,000 or 25 per cent of stadium capacity, whichever is lower, and is subject to the UK government giving the green light, which is expected no later than May 10. Matches displaced by the FA Cup final on May 15 will be moved to May 11 and 12. The top flight say that UK government officials have confirmed they have no plans to revise the ‘no away fans’ element of their guidance. Police have asked when travelling fans are expected to be allowed to return but a decision is not expected before the end of this season. It is hoped there will be a return to full capacities in August. Meanwhile, talks are continuing over a blanket boycott of social media by topflight clubs to protest racist abuse online. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters (above) has spoken to a number of clubs and will continue to do so before recommending ‘a clear plan’. There are concerns over the effectiveness of such a ban. However, many feel it would be a symbolic measure. The Premier League are also awaiting feedback from the EFL on the proposed one-week domestic extension to the summer transfer window.