Coronavirus outbreak: Manchester United to pay staff for remaining season
What's the story
In a major blow to football, the Premier League has been postponed until April 30 due to coronavirus pandemic. However, Manchester United will continue to pay all the casual staff and workers even if the season gets suspended or is played behind closed doors later on. United's executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward stated that the club is concerned about the staff's security, come what may.
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The club aims at reducing the financial uncertainty
"This goodwill gesture reflects the club's desire to reduce the financial uncertainty facing its casual workforce, and is in recognition of the crucial role they play in delivering services to supporters," said the club in a statement.
Premier League
The Premier League season has been extended indefinitely
Initially, the Premier League 2019-20 season was deferred until at least April 4, owing to the outburst. Following an emergency meeting with the 20 clubs on Thursday, it was decided that all professional football in England will remain suspended till April 30. The Football Association also confirmed that the current season has now been extended indefinitely until its completion.
Twitter Post
Joint statement from FA, Premier League and EFL
The FA, Premier League, EFL and women’s professional game, together with the PFA and LMA are committed to finding ways of resuming the 2019/20 football season as soon as it is safe and possible to do so
— Premier League (@premierleague) March 19, 2020
Full statement: https://t.co/kr0sJk8JHp pic.twitter.com/K1OBzBbKfc
Donation
Marcus Rashford teams up with FareShare for donation
United striker Marcus Rashford has donated a hefty amount in order to provide meals for the children affected by school closures, with growing concerns of coronavirus. Having partnered with FareShare, he has been speaking to the organizations about how to cater the vulnerable children. "No children should have to worry where their next meal is coming from," Rashford's instagram post read.
Fixtures
Liverpool are having a dream run in the season
The last Premier League fixture was played on March 10 wherein Leicester City beat Aston Villa 4-0 before the season was deferred. Manchester United trounced Manchester City 2-0 in their last encounter, held on March 8. Meanwhile, Liverpool are two wins shy of clinching their first top-flight title in 30 years. Overall, as many as 92 Premier League matches are still to be played.