Or Bielsa. For the first time there’s debate about whether Graham Potter can motivate players. The new restriction tiers came into effect from December 2, 2020 - when the national lockdown concluded across England. Footballers have a poor reputation (deserved by some) but there’s a growing number of really positive contributors stepping into the gaps not only created by Covid but by years of social deprivation. 10/10. The Premier League This is Premier League "The Premier League is the world's leading league, with exciting competitive football on the pitch and passionate fans supporting in stadiums throughout the country every week throughout the season." Wrong. Explore now Club News We need to sign Mitrovic has not been firing on all cylinders, and we have no proven striker in reserve. Adam Armstrong? Part two: Liverpool to Wolves. We play entertaining football but, until last night, we’ve struggled badly to find a goal. I’m thrilled for Dean Smith, who gets limited external praise but has evolved superbly. Happy with the manager? Moment that made me smile in 2020 The Championship title. Strange how a “slow, greedy diver” can become the new Gazza overnight in the public perception. Fans rate the best and worst of the season so far – the stars, the flops and what needs to change in 2021, Last modified on Sun 3 Jan 2021 03.28 EST. His continued treatment of Jaïro Riedewald is baffling, putting the Dutch midfielder in and out of the side when he is clearly levels above others in his position. Moment that made me smile in 2020 @NorthStandChat on Twitter asking if Liverpool will receive punishment for breaking the rule of six at Selhurst Park. There’s no doubt we’ve been better in attack, but fans’ patience is being stretched. Moment that made me smile in 2020 It doesn’t matter which club Marcus Rashford plays for. After 271 days, fans are finally back in Premier League stadiums. Hopefully he’ll come good again – but maybe Chelsea and the Premier League are not the place for him. Fans are socially distanced as they wait for kick off ahead of the English Premier League soccer match between West Ham United and Manchester United at the London stadium in London, England, Saturday, Dec. 5, 2020. Our half-drunk players outrunning Derby and beating them 3-1 before earning an FA fine for pyro at Pride Park helped make up for the fans’ absence. As fans return in England, the limit is 50% of capacity, or 4,000 fans (depending on local Covid-related restrictions). His school teacher look is starting to lose its charm, his substitutions are questionable and we’re often worse in the second half of games. • Chris Whiting clippings.me/chriswhiting @ChrisRWhiting, David Squires on … the endless joyride that was football in 2020, Men's transfer window January 2021 – all deals from Europe's top five leagues, The alternative 2020 sports awards: quotes, storms and animal cameos, Premier League fans’ half-term reports. Fans made it back to the Emirates. Moment that made me smile in 2020 Arsenal signing Willian and their fans having to watch his corners every week. Moment that made me smile in 2020 Without this moment we’d be playing Luton and Birmingham having sold Grealish – so it has to be the great man’s goal at West Ham to keep us up. Vardy can’t carry the forward line on his own for much longer and Pérez is better in the No 10 role. 8/10. Ranking how full each Premier League stadium has been this season Survey has ranked Premier League club's away support from worst to best It’s certainly got people talking. 9/10, a mark off because we can’t defend corners. He deserves so much praise for his actions highlighting the obscene spectacle of millions of children living in food poverty in a rich nation. 8/10. Many other players also do so much good work, often without publicity. Stars and flops The real glimmer of hope comes from the youthful core of Saka, Tierney, Martinelli, Smith Rowe and Gabriel. Jon Moss blowing the final whistle on our 2-0 win there back in January gave me my biggest football smile of the year. Some think he’s out of his depth, but there’s a less vocal consensus that he can turn this round. Considering that the capacity of most Premier League stadiums is in the thousands, the maximum number in all cases is 2,000. Happy with the manager? Stars and flops Grealish has been terrific obviously, although no more terrific than the last three years. Forget the recent run: the future looks bright under Frank. Leadership and a single-minded determination to succeed. The Premier League will no longer have any fans in stadiums after Liverpool was plunged into tier three. 5/10. Allan, when fit, is Peter Reid mark II; Doucouré is now settling and has a phenomenal work rate; Michael Keane is solid when the game is in front of him; and Iwobi is worthy of mention too. breaking the rule of six at Selhurst Park. Stars and flops Dominic Calvert-Lewin, superb at leading the line, has a towering leap, and the effectiveness of his game in the six-yard box is a joy to watch. Organised activities for elite athletes, under-18s and disabled people can continue. Premier League Circuit Breaker Idea Called Out By Fans And Pundits Alike; Grealish Agrees On Wednesday, the Premier League shared the idea of a two-week break to allow clubs to get their COVID-19 outbreaks under control, drawing mixed reactions. We need to sign Another striker to give us something different up front. Arteta would be feeling far more heat by now if he had a full house of fickle Gooners baying at him. But he looks to be forging a pattern of play and a spirit that could keep us up. The wholesale changes in the summer window, when the campaign was already under way, made it hard to form any realistic expectations – but the new recruits have fitted in brilliantly and seem to have bought in to Scott Parker’s tactics and demands. Golden ticket — How Premier League clubs plan to welcome back fans; Golden ticket — How Premier League clubs plan to welcome back fans Ten Premier League clubs and 34 EFL teams can have 2,000 fans for each match from next week. Very much better than expected. The major flop remains VAR, and its execution. 7/10. Highlights have included the five away wins, especially at Spurs. The masks may only be taken off temporarily to eat or drink. Still quiet at times. Seems unlikely in January, though: signing Olsen permanently as cover for Pickford may be the only bit of business. In August I’d have been delighted with 15th by the end of the year; instead we ended it 5th. Happy with the manager? A limited number of fans are allowed to return to Premier League games in December, with the UK government rolling out new coronavirus restriction tiers. Eberechi Eze: taking the pressure off Wilfried Zaha. We need to sign Watkins has done very well, but another centre-forward to ease his burden would be nice. Premier League fans’ half-term reports. Lookman, another newcomer, has slotted in well while returnee Anguissa has been equally eye-catching in midfield. Arsenal target Buendia happy to wait as Gunners focus on January loan options, Melayro Bogarde: Bundesliga record-breaker on Barcelona's transfer radar. Happy with the manager? The Premier League has released a set of rules that need to be followed by fans once they are inside the stadiums. Happy with the manager? Graham Potter: under pressure for the first time. As a result, the first elite-level game that saw supporters return to stadiums in England was Arsenal's Europa League showdown with Rapid Wien at the Emirates Stadium on December 3. Moment that made me smile in 2020 Having been deprived of the pleasure for the past nine months, and having discovered how much I’d taken it for granted, the all too brief return to the Emirates brought tears to my eyes. Moment that made me smile in 2020 Being back at Selhurst for the game against Spurs: the performance, result, and just the joy of being back at our second home lifted everyone’s spirits. Yes. Goal brings you all you need to know. Tottenham Hotspur Fans. In the top four above City, Chelsea and Spurs and through to the Europa League knockouts is all we could have asked for. We need to sign You’ve seen our defending, right? Also, ahem, Glenn Murray is reported to be returning from Watford. Copyright © 2021 Goal (English) All rights reserved. If we can’t do it via promotion from our own ranks, targets include Julian Brandt, Houssem Aouar and Emi Buendía. LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 16: Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal reacts during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Southampton at Emirates Stadium on December 16, 2020 in London, England. With time and a bit more self-belief we’ll prove we’re capable of going toe to toe with any team. Still very happy. Indoor sport should not take place unless with your household or bubble. Patrick Bamford: revelling in the top flight. • Bernard Azulay goonersdiary.co.uk @GoonerN5. Attendance at games limited to 50% of capacity or 2,000 (whichever is lower). (Photo by Peter Cziborra - Pool/Getty Images) Moment that made me smile in 2020 Seeing Leicester qualify for the last 32 of the Europa League at Braga was a special moment. Stars and flops Nobody predicted Patrick Bamford would be having sleepless nights on the eve of England squad announcements, but he’s revelling. Konsa should be in the England squad, so can expect a call-up in 2025. 8/10. • Paul Baker In memory of Trizia Fiorellino, It was an exciting start, back-to-back wins over Southampton and Manchester United, but form has been wildly up and down since: a record home defeat to Liverpool, poor results against Newcastle and Burnley, demolitions of West Brom and Leeds. We need to sign We’re unlikely to spend, but reinforcements are on their way with Percy Tau finally able to get a work permit (at last a benefit from Brexit) and the excitingly versatile midfielder Jakub Moder being recalled from Lech Poznan. Maybe knocking three past Wolves will spark something. • Daniel Chapman thesquareball.net @MoscowhiteTSB, It’s been another terrific season so far. Vinai Venkatesham, Managing Director, Arsenal FC Happy with the manager? 5/10. We’ve looked a more potent attacking force, but struggle to keep a clean sheet. There’s clear potential here to give Dyche the backing he wants and establish our club at the top level with a better financial base. Stars and flops Tariq Lamptey is a superstar in the making; Yves Bissouma has been outstanding, Robert Sánchez is a needed step up in goal with his reach and distribution, and keeping Adam Lallana and Danny Welbeck fit must be a priority. We’re playing attractive, effective football, the best we’ve seen for years. The problem is how to distribute the limited number of tickets. If Bielsa gets a player in January, he doesn’t use them until March, post-reprogramming. 8/10. A £16m bargain. Every Premier League club is either in Tier 2 or Tier 3 and, interestingly, a 50-50 split initially emerged, with 10 clubs based in Tier 2 regions and 10 clubs based in Tier 3 regions. It’s also pleasing to see Brendan Rodgers finally utilise Ayoze Pérez more effectively too. Sadly, André Gomes has struggled post-injury, but we live in hope. We’re grateful that a clutch of clubs have started poorly, otherwise the outlook could have been much worse. Especially with two homegrown Chisits and club legend Vardy getting the goals. Stars and flops Nobody has flopped, we’ve just been hit by injuries. 9.5/10 – and it’s only not 10 because it’s all been behind closed doors. But refusing to acknowledge the blatant mistake of acquiring another Chelsea pensioner has to count against him. Yes we’ve had a rough spell, but we’re still in a decent position, this is a young team which is still learning, gelling and finding its feet. Our attack clearly needs reinforcing, though: Neal Maupay lacks confidence, and though Aaron Connolly can be a menace, he has a lot to learn. He’s every Villa fan’s hero; I’ve started wearing odd slippers to be more “Jack”. Tier 3 restrictions, meanwhile, do not permit the admittance of any spectators at games, so clubs who are within that zone will have to continue playing games behind closed doors. Premier League fans’ half-term reports. I wouldn’t swap him for anyone – and fortunately it sounds like the new US owners feel the same way. Under the new system, a maximum of 4,000 supporters will be allowed into games in Tier 1 regions, though that won't be applicable in the Premier League just yet. - Stream ESPN FC Daily on ESPN+ (U.S. only) Happy with the manager? Find advice for fans on anti-counterfeiting, illegal broadcasting, safe ticket buying and unauthorised ticket websites, on the official website of the Premier League. Premier League clubs to welcome back fans AFP November 26, 2020 AFP No Comments London (AFP) – Arsenal will be the first Premier League club to welcome fans for a competitive fixture since March after confirming 2,000 spectators will be allowed in for their Europa League match against Rapid Vienna on December 3. 8/10. Fans could be back at some Premier League grounds in tier 2 but not others in tier 3 under the government's regulations. 8/10, We need to sign David Alaba would be great, and the Declan Rice rumours don’t go away. Part one: Arsenal to Leicester Fans rate the best and worst of the season so far – the stars, the flops and what needs to change in 2021 We’re all waiting to see what the takeover brings: so far it’s been a mix of nervousness and excitement among fans. I was worried we’d struggle with our intense fixture congestion, but so far, so good. Silva has brought some calm and leadership to our jittery defence, James is progressing nicely and Mendy has given confidence to those in front of him, via a blip or two. His man-management is a joy, and he’s been tactically adaptable, changing the formation at the back. We need to sign It’d make sense to extend Nathaniel Clyne’s deal. From Allegri to Tuchel: Who could replace Lampard as next Chelsea manager? Alongside new assistant Craig Shakespeare he’s added flair and tightened us up. However, we believe measures are already available which would allow the safe return of fans and should also be activated now. Match day is an occasion, not just a game.” Brighton chief exec Paul Barber believes the move will be “more symbolic than financial” for Premier League … The tiers vary across England, based on the severity of the situation in each region, but, while not all stadiums will see supporters return, it will be a welcome development for football in the country nonetheless. 3/10. A big shout-out to Illan Meslier for rewriting the rule that says you need experience to stop shots in the Premier League. The only clubs that can host supporters under the updated guidelines are Brighton, Everton, Liverpool and Southampton - who are all in Tier 2 regions. Adult sport can take place outdoors, but must followed the 'rule of six' indoors. Moment that made me smile in 2020 I’m a Burnley fan who had waited well over half a century to see us beat Manchester United at Old Trafford. Pépé still has to prove he wasn’t a massive waste of money and, with Xhaka’s midfield engine room too often looking like it’s playing in reverse, we’re relying on Partey’s return. Premier League fans are known for their ruthlessness and passion and it was on show here. Clearly this is all still a work in progress, and I’d prefer him to make substitutions earlier than he generally does – but he’s learning on the job. He’d be a fine addition, and it’d also send West Ham fans into meltdown, which is never a bad thing. Adult sport can take place outdoors, but cannot take place indoors if there is interaction between different households. • Tony Scholes UpTheClarets.com @utcdotcom, Better than expected at this stage. But even though Sam Allardyce isn’t available, Tony Pulis is, so we should be careful what we wish for. Happy with the manager? “Some fans will be doing backwards somersaults and if we are allowed fans it will be a nice fight to be one of the 2,000 or so. Briefly. 9/10. Stars and flops Stars so far are Reece James, Édouard Mendy, Mason Mount and Thiago Silva. Getty Images. Fans were also allowed in to watch the derby match between Brighton and Southampton on December 7. Fans not allowed to attend games at London Premier League clubs, as COVID-19 surge sees England's capital city moved to the highest tier of restrictions. Among the best performers so far is Ben Mee. The pre-Christmas announcement means that fans will be in attendance at some games during the traditionally busy Christmas and new year period. The first Premier League games that saw supporters back in attendance came that weekend, on December 5 and 6. But Covid means we’re yet to see the best of record-signing Rodrigo. Édouard Mendy: lifting Chelsea’s defence. with the UK government rolling out new coronavirus restriction tiers. We need to sign More midfield creativity. Adult sport can take place outdoors, but people must avoid higher risk contact activity. The next day, the north London derby between Tottenham and Arsenal had 2,000 fans, as did Liverpool versus Wolves at Anfield. 6/10. The match will be played without fans, behind closed doors as a Covid-19 precaution. Oh, and he dresses well, too. The English Premier League is the world's richest football … When disaffection might be rearing up we see the Baggies swapping Bilic for Allardyce and remember, there but for the grace of God. Since the captain came back alongside James Tarkowski we’ve looked a totally different team. We need to sign Ideally we still need cover at right-back (for Coleman), left-back (for Digne) and centre-forward (for DCL). But Michy Batshuayi has failed to find the net, having had goals chalked off in three games by VAR, Max Meyer can’t even make a nine-man bench, and Mamadou Sakho now appears to be our fifth-choice centre-back. Discover the history of the Nike ball and its 21-year association with the Premier League, from the Nike Geo Merlin in 2000/01 to the Nike Flight in 2020/21. Premier League outlines rules for fans in stadiums: Social distancing inside stadiums. Pogba finally proving his doubters wrong, Zidane: You have to ask the players if I still have their support, Ronaldo hopes Supercoppa win will be Serie A springboard. That’s made me smile all season. Stars and flops Our established stars continue to make major contributions but special mentions have to go to James Justin and Nampalys Mendy who have done incredibly well deputising for one of the best full-backs and one of the best defensive midfielders in Europe. The game feels just a little more real, a little more like its old self … The Premier League This is Premier League "The Premier League is the world's leading league, with exciting competitive football on the pitch and passionate fans supporting in stadiums throughout the country every week throughout the season." In a football context, Tier 2 restrictions allow for a limited attendance at games, specifically up to 50 per cent of capacity or 2,000 people - whichever is lower. Moment that made me smile in 2020 Joe Bryan’s free-kick at Wembley: more disguise than an MI5 operative. Carrying Aubameyang as a passenger was acceptable so long as he was consistently scoring, but we simply can’t afford to have Willian joining him in the backseat. So Josh King? We need to sign We don’t really have problem areas in the first team, but we do lack numbers. Free to play fantasy football game, set up your fantasy football team at the Official Premier League site. Hahahahaha. The information contained in Goal (English) may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the prior written authority of Goal (English), Everything you need to know about which clubs will be allowed to permit spectators into their stadiums and how many can attend games, Worth the wait? 9/10. The Premier League recognises the ambition of the Government’s Operation Moonshot and will support the project’s objectives to get fans back into stadiums. Happy with the manager? So, which tier are the Premier League clubs in and how many supporters will they allow into games? Marcelo Bielsa has extended his strolls around Wetherby to walking on the River Wharfe. 2,000 fans were allowed to attend five Premier League games in Matchweek 11, as the UK government relaxed regulations on fans attending events in outdoor stadiums.