



The possibility of football matches taking place inside empty stadiums in England during the coronavirus pandemic appears to be gathering momentum, with the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) revealing most of its members accept there is now “no alternative”.



Speaking for the first time since the sport was suspended in England owing to the COVID-19 outbreak, PFA deputy chief executive Bobby Barnes told The Athletic:



The initial reluctance of players to compete behind closed doors has shifted



Football has a responsibility to help to try and lift the nation at a time of global crisis



Negotiations will be held over player salary deferrals



The PFA’s £55 million cash reserves will be made available for members who are experiencing hardship



A 24-hour wellbeing hotline is among the other provisions to help to support players in need



The majority of players were understood to have...