English Premier League plans June 17 restart after 100-day shutdown

MANCHESTER, England — The Premier League plans to restart on June 17 after a 100-day shutdown caused by the coronavirus pandemic, with new staggered kickoff times to make sure every game can be shown on TV as fans are prevented from attending games.

The clubs agreed Thursday that the competition should resume with a Wednesday night doubleheader featuring Manchester City playing Arsenal and Aston Villa hosting Sheffield United — two games that were postponed during earlier rounds.

However, the league still needs formal approval from the government as lockdown measures are gradually eased.

“This [June 17] date cannot be confirmed until we have met all the safety requirements needed,” Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said, “as the health and welfare of all participants and supporters is our priority.”

After those makeup games are played, the 30th round will start on Friday, June 19 — if authorities approve safety plans. The government has been keen on bringing back sports, this week approving contact training between large groups of players.

“Positive to see further steps on the return of football today,” Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden tweeted. “We are still working on govt guidance before we green light sports’ return.”

Resuming the league has been keenly awaited at Liverpool, which is 25 points clear with nine games remaining in the quest to end a 30-year title drought.