LEAGUE SUMMER SERIES THE BEGINNING OF THE END?

Words by Paddy Gladman

This pre-season, we saw six Premier League sides take part in the inaugural ‘Premier League SummerSeries’.

The Summer Series consisted of each side playing three matches across a variety of American states; allowing fans from across The United States to watch PL starsintheflesh.

Chelsea won the tournament after: beating; Brighton in Philadelphia, drawing with Newcastle in Atlanta (Georgia) and beating Fulham in Maryland, as new signings Nicolas Jackson andChristopherNkunkustarred!

Rather than being played at the usual slow, sluggish manner in which many pre-season games canbecontestedat,thesegames were played at a competitive, high tempo; preparing squads adequately for the upcoming season. This reflected in the 35 goals scoredacrossjustninematches.

Sounds great, right? I’m not so sure …

This tournament didn’t include any American sides whatsoever, beingcomprisedsolelyofEnglish teams whose fans’ loyalty appeared inconsequential. Pre-season friendlies used to be anopportunityforfansto attend matches at more affordable prices, perhaps a chance to take yourwholefamily.

This isn’t possible now. Distant and expensive locations, partnered with inaccessible kickoff times; has seen the dismissal offans,insomecasesforcingthe ardent to stay up beyond midnight - due to early hour kick offs.

We already see regular NFL matches played in England in front of British audiences … could we see similar happen with Premier League games potentially being played in The States?

This simply cannot happen. During lockdown, we saw how vital supporters are to matches and how important attending matches can be for the mental health of fans, many of whom rely on football as an escape from the realityofaworkingweek.

Shutting out the regular, loyal supporters who have watched their sides for years - through thick and thin by taking their game across the pond would be the end of Premier League footballaswe know it.Areweonthe brink of losing our beautiful game?

Many understand the sentiment in opening the door to other audiences in other countries, however the loyal local fans cannotbeforgotten.Clubsareatthe heart of local communities. Taking them away from these communities - where they have such strong connections with local people would be a travesty for PremierLeaguefootball.