Liverpool have already seen one game postponed after the Queen’s death, but what do we know about the state of play for the upcoming games against Ajax and Chelsea?
Earlier Friday it was confirmed that the Premier League made the decision to postpone the weekend’s matches as “a mark of respect” to Queen Elizabeth II.
The decision was late and jeopardizes the match schedule, not to mention the price for fans, workers and local businesses.
But with the UK now in a period of mourning and a funeral on the horizon, what does it mean for the two parties to arrive before the international break?
What do we know about the Ajax game?
Ajax (H) – Tuesday, September 13
The expectation is that Ajax’s visit will be given the green light on Tuesday, with the Echo reporting that Liverpool are “still waiting” for the match to go ahead.
Plans are to prepare for the match as normal, which would then see Jurgen Klopp hold his pre-match press conference on Monday, with the training schedule to be altered in light of a weekend off.
Miguel Delaney of The Independent said on the subject: “As far as midweek European games in the UK are concerned, it’s still being discussed with some open angles.
“But the view seems to be that if they can play from a practical standpoint, there’s no reason not to. In which case, it would all come down to respect/optics.”
The obvious choice for many would be to use the game to pay homage before kick-off.
The Irish Independent has reported that the Aviva Stadium in Ireland could host Champions League games for clubs in England, but it will surely be a last resort.
Liverpool have postponed ticket sales for season ticket holders and members for the match, now “hope” it will continue on Monday, read what you will.
No sports blackout has been implemented in the UK, with cricket, rugby league and rugby union over the weekend, with the decision made by each sporting body.
This Is Anfield will keep you updated with any new information.
What about the trip to Chelsea?
Chelsea (A) – Sunday, September 18
The trip to Chelsea, on the other hand, is more complex.
The Queen’s funeral will take place next week, and is expected to be on Monday 19 September.
The Telegraph’s Ben Rumsby has stated that “there are major concerns about football matches taking place” over that weekend because of the “likelihood of police being redeployed” in London.
That could leave a shortage of Premier League matches, news corroborated by inews, with limited resources to play a role in the decision rather than a sign of respect like this weekend.
The hope is that an announcement will be made quickly to all comers.
If it were postponed, it would mean that Liverpool will not play in the Premier League until October 1, when Brighton travel to Anfield after the international break.
But it would also mean the Premier League has to find two free slots for these postponed games and the schedule is already tight, with just five free midweeks before the final weekend.
