A TOP police official has called for the Premier League to DELAY next month’s proposed return.
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson claimed even behind-closed-doors matches at neutral venues increase the risk of escalating coronavirus.
Villa Park is one possible neutral ground, on West Midlands Police’s beat, so Jamieson’s comments will worry Prem clubs.
He said: “I understand people want to see football resume but safety must come first.
“I can’t see how matches could take place without significant risks.
“What happens if thousands of fans turn up? How could the police enforce social distancing? How could they keep rival groups apart?
“Even if fans did not turn up, the police would have to be on hand in case they did.
“My officers are doing important work looking after the public and need to concentrate on that.”
BAYER LEVERKUSEN boss Peter Bosz backs Germany’s return to football, insisting he is not afraid of coronavirus despite being ‘high risk’.
And the Dutch coach is desperate to play Rangers in the Europa League in their postponed second-leg clash.
The Bundesliga is back next weekend and is the first major European league to return after the outbreak of the pandemic.
Leverkusen face Werder Bremen a week tomorrow and Bosz, 56, an asthmatic, said: “There is no fear.
“We have taken a lot of measures since we started again. The players are less at risk than me and I am not afraid, either.
“It was fun being back training. It smells like football again. I noticed the guys are all very fresh.
“We haven’t played since the Rangers game in Scotland in March and they are all desperate to get back. Now there is a game, we have something to aim for.”
