Breaking News: Premier League won’t release players to Red-List countries for September international break

Premier League clubs have unanimously agreed not to release players for international matches in places on the UK’s red-list next month.

The decision has been taken so players will not have to quarantine for 10 days on their return to England.

A statement released on Tuesday read: “Premier League clubs have today reluctantly but unanimously decided not to release players for international matches played in red-list countries.

“The clubs’ decision, which is strongly supported by the Premier League, will apply to nearly 60 players from 19 Premier League clubs who are due to travel to 26 red-list countries in the September international window.

The Government states those returning to England from a country on their red list must quarantine for 10 full days in a managed quarantine hotel and take a coronavirus test on or before day two and on or after day eight of quarantining.

This approach may not go well with Premier League clubs who will be busy panting for the league’s winner and hooking for top-four for the purpose of European Competitions.

“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 matchday and the third round of the EFL Cup.

If this holds, it simply means Ghanaian players such as Thomas Partey, Jordan Ayew, Mohammed Salifu and Leicester City’s Daniel Amartey may not be available to C.K Akonnor for selection.

The decision will also see Mohamed Salah not be able to play in Egypt’s World Cup Qualifier in Cairo against Angola on September 2 – and the Egyptian FA had said Liverpool had already informed them Salah will not be available.

Far beyond the border will also see Brazil miss key players as it hosts Argentina in a World Cup Qualifier at the Maracana on September 5.

By: Elisha Aberiganya | Follow us on Twitter @activtvgh

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