Times journo delivers Championship restart update, West Brom and Leeds likely deemed ‘high risk’
West Brom could see some of their remaining Championship matches played at neutral grounds, according to The Times journalist Martyn Ziegler.
The EFL have made it clear that it is their intention to finish the second tier’s fixture schedule on the field, as opposed to curtailing the campaign and relying on a points per game basis if possible.
But Ziegler has suggested that certain games which are deemed “high risk” by the relevant authorities because of the likelihood of fans turning up outside stadiums could be staged at neutral venues.
And the reporter directly named West Brom and Leeds United amongst the sides that are most likely to be affected by the measures.
Writing on his personal Twitter account, he said: “High-risk games in the Championship may also be played at neutral grounds – decision would be by club, local safety advisory group and police.
“Leeds United and West Brom ones most likely to be affected.”
If this proves to be the case then it could prove to be hugely unfair for the Baggies.
One of the main arguments that has plagued plans to get the football season up and running again has been the matter of sporting integrity.
How is it fair in any way, shape, or form, for Albion to be stripped of their home advantage for some matches because they have a passionate fanbase?
Of course, nobody is advocating for supporters to go and wait at The Hawthorns on a match day, but it seems unjust to assume that our fans would do it when other clubs would not.
There isn’t a club in the division that don’t have enough of a fanbase to contravene guidelines on social distancing and group gatherings, so why should we be singled out?
Either everybody plays at neutral venues or nobody does, anything else would be unfair, plain and simple.
In other West Brom news, ‘Dead wood’ – Some West Brom fans want £8m player sold as transfer report emerges.
Be sure to follow West Brom News on Facebook and Twitter for 24/7 updates on the Baggies and more exclusive interviews with Kevin Phillips.