Liverpool potential title clincher vs. Everton to be played at Goodison Park

The Merseyside derby between Liverpool and Everton on June 21 will take place at Goodison Park, it was announced on Wednesday.

The fixture will be held behind closed doors but the venue was not confirmed when the league released its revised fixtures for the season’s restart amid concerns over safety.

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Deputy mayor of Liverpool and chair of the Ground Safety Advisory Group (GSAG) Wendy Simon said: “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.

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“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 June 21 — 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.”

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Last month, police chiefs had advocated that the derby be played at a neutral venue to prevent fans from congregating outside the stadium and violating social distancing rules amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Jurgen Klopp’s side need six points to clinch their first league title in 30 years, but if second-placed Manchester City lose their game in hand at home to Arsenal on June 17, Liverpool could secure the league with victory over Everton.

Klopp has promised Liverpool’s fans a title parade when it is safe and said there will be no home advantage for any team when the Premier League returns behind closed doors.