Coronavirus: Watford chairman says Premier League resumption should not burden NHS
Professional football in England was suspended indefinitely last month
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Premier League must not rush to re-start its season and has to ensure there is no additional strain on the National Health Service, Watford chairman Scott Duxbury said.
Professional football in England was suspended indefinitely last month because of the flu-like virus that has killed more than 21,000 people in Britain.
The UK government’s cabinet minister responsible for sport has been in talks with the league over a possible resumption in the near future but Duxbury said any decision must be taken keeping the NHS workload in mind.
“I feel uncomfortable at this stage talking about football as a narrative with there being stresses on the NHS and that has to be a priority,” Duxbury told a news conference.
“Do I want to resume football? Absolutely... I’ll be led by the government. If they say it’s safe and we’re not going to put pressure on the NHS, then fantastic. But I think we have to be led to make sure that it is safe and that we are not rushing.”
The club has opened their doors to the Watford General Hospital and are offering beds, food and training areas to support NHS staff at Vicarage Road.
“I feel truly privileged to help and assist the hospital and it’s a real demonstration of the quality of staff that we have at this club,” Duxbury added.
Premier League clubs will hold a conference call on Friday to discuss options for finishing the season but a re-start is not expected until June at the earliest.
Watford were 17th in the league with 27 points when the season was suspended.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments