Liverpool City Council has given its approval for the Merseyside derby to be played at Goodison Park on June 21, with Everton and Liverpool to be granted a license to host behind-closed-doors games for the remainder of the season.
This puts an end to an increasingly contentious debate about whether it would be more appropriate to use a neutral venue.
Liverpool promptly welcomed the decision, which increases their chances of securing the club’s first title in 30 years on home soil, via a club statement.
“Liverpool Football Club welcomes the decision by the local Ground Safety Advisory Group to support football matches being played behind closed doors on Merseyside,” read the statement.
“Following already positive discussions with key partners including Liverpool City Council, Merseyside Police, Spirit of Shankly, Everton Football Club and Blue Union we have committed to working together to restart the season safely with the overriding aim of ensuring these games are completed by prioritising public health so the return to football is a success for Merseyside.
“These discussions are very much part of our normal match day planning and arrangements.
“Further dialogue between all partners is scheduled this week and together will provide clear and regular updates for supporters throughout this process.
“We would like to thank the Chair, the elected members of GSAG, and all those people who have been working tirelessly in the background for their support as we take the next step to completing the 2019/20 Premier League season,” the statement concluded.
Deputy Mayor of Liverpool and Chair of the Ground Safety Advisory Group (GSAG), Wendy Simon, spoke about the development stating that the group was now satisfied with public safety precautions.
“We are satisfied that the considerable evidence and guidance provided by the Government, Everton and Liverpool Football Clubs, Public Health colleagues and Merseyside Police will ensure that the outstanding fixtures for the 2019/20 Premier League season can be safely and securely played at both Goodison Park and Anfield,” she said.
“A lot of factors have been taken into consideration by the GSAG, especially the safety of the players, match officials and staff in attendance at both stadia. We are confident the measures in place will allow the matches to be held behind closed doors without any detrimental impact to all concerned and recommend to the city council that the safety certificates for both grounds be amended to allow this to happen.
“I’m sure fans of both teams will welcome this recommendation and, subject to ratification, we look forward to watching the first of these matches – the Merseyside Derby on 21 June – which will be broadcast live on free-to-air TV for the first time since the Premier League began.
“We would also advise that everyone, wherever they may be watching these fixtures, to strongly adhere to the guidance on social distancing around the current Covid-19 pandemic and for not only these matches but the wider relaxation measures anticipated for the city.”
