Behind-closed-doors start and a hectic schedule – Premier League talking points

Those clubs involved in Europe face the prospect of playing every three days even more frequently.

Published Sep 10, 2020

The Premier League season begins on September 12.

Here, the PA news agency picks out some of the talking points.

Absent friends

Liverpool v Crystal Palace – Premier League – Anfield — Fans will be absent again when Liverpool kick off against Leeds on the opening weekend (Paul Ellis/NMC Pool)

It’s going to be hectic

The impact of the pandemic means changes have been made to the fixture schedule, notably the cancellation of the Premier League’s winter break, FA Cup replays being scrapped and the Carabao Cup semi-finals reduced to one leg. The campaign is kicking off five weeks late after the end of last season was delayed by lockdown but it is planned that time will be made up with a more condensed programme. Those clubs involved in Europe face the prospect of playing every three days even more frequently.

Race to the top…

End of 2019/20 Premier League Season Package — Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola are likely to be battling for the title again (Laurence Griffiths/NMC Pool)

…and to beat the drop

Fulham v Brentford – Sky Bet Championship Play Off Final – Wembley Stadium — Fulham were promoted via the play-offs (Mike Egerton/PA)

To Elland back

Leeds United v Luton Town – Sky Bet Championship – Elland Road — Bielsa’s bucket, coming soon to a Premier League ground near you (Mike Egerton/PA)

VA-ARRRRGH!

Yes, it’s still here. There have been one or two subtle tweaks, with the system brought into line with FIFA guidance and referees being encouraged to use the pitchside monitors more than they did last season. But the ‘armpit’ offsides that infuriated fans and players alike remain in place.