FIFA president Gianni Infantino has appealed to the British Government to make a special exemption for players from the Premier League to still honour next month’s World Cup qualifiers even in red-listed countries.
The Super Eagles will be one of the teams affected by the Premier League clubs decision not to release players as they will play on September 7 in Cape Verde, which is one of the red-listed countries.
Players who play in red-listed countries will have to quarantine for 10 days on return to England and the Premier League clubs said they cannot afford this.
The FIFA president called on support from the various league and clubs at this trying period of the Coronavirus Pandemic.
“We have faced global problems together in the past and must continue to do so in the future. The release of players in the upcoming international windows is a matter of great urgency and importance,” he urged.
“I am grateful for the support and cooperation from many stakeholders in the game during this challenging period.
“I am calling on a show of solidarity from every member association, every league, and every club, to do what is both right and fair for the global game.
“Many of the best players in the world compete in leagues in England and Spain, and we believe these countries also share the responsibility to preserve and protect the sporting integrity of competitions around the world.”
Infantino disclosed he has written to the Prime Minister to intervene.
“On the issue of quarantine restrictions in England, for players returning from red-list countries, I have written to Prime Minister Boris Johnson and appealed for the necessary support, in particular, so players are not deprived of the opportunity of representing their countries in qualifying matches for the FIFA World Cup, which is one of the ultimate honours for a professional footballer,” he stated.
“I have suggested that an approach similar to that adopted by the UK government for the final stages of the EURO 2020 be implemented for the upcoming international matches.
“Together we have shown solidarity and unity in the fight against COVID-19. Now, I am urging everyone to ensure the release of international players for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers.”
