The Prem is back, rejoice! But what does this mean for fans and players?

Following the government guidance for sporting events to return in June and the long drawn out discussion from both the teams and organisation, the Premier League will finally be returning for fans. The first game since the postponements and cancellations rattled us back in March will be played on the 17^th of June.

These fixtures will also be played out in the same order that had been intended, so as it stands there is no change to team schedules other than the amount of games that will be played in a shorter period of time.

But now that the Prem is back, what does this mean for fans and players alike?

Testing and injury

All players and support staff will be undergoing constant testing throughout, as would be expected. One positive test may not call for any change, as we’ve already seen in a tweet that Spurs have already had one positive test. It is an unnamed player and care will have to be taken if a large number of people are found to be in contact or test positive with the virus. Although testing is constant, so it should all be under control. As long as said player doesn’t indulge in some naughty house parties during his seven day lock down.

There’s also the increased risk of injury as players who may not be at their fittest will be playing games at an increased capacity. Some experts suggest this could lead to a 25% increase in injury for some. Between the two, this could drastically change what a teams starting eleven looks like from game to game and may have implications for the rest of the season.

More football, less attendance

There’s a big change for fans too, as has been expressed by many and rightfully expected; no fans will be able to attend any games for the foreseeable future unless a way to reduce capacity in stadiums to allow some fans is found. It could remain this way into the new year.

This may be frustrating to fans, luckily however to keep fans entertained the rest of the season will be played at an increased capacity. The goal set out is to have the the season drawn to a close by August, allowing preparations for the 20/21 season to take place, meaning we’re going to see many more games played during the week.

Whilst great news for fans in general, this is particularly good for betting fans too as this resource lists the betting sites not on gamstop that are preparing odds for the big number of fixtures on the way. This extends to international football too as the other big European leagues will be following a similar pattern of playing as much as possible in the coming weeks to draw the seasons to conclusion.

We’ve already seen some cancellations as both the SPFL and French Ligue 1 had been brought to an early conclusion. Fingers crossed from all now that testing remains good with only few positive results so the league can stay on good footing and continue with its planned schedule.