West Ham’s squad and all others will come under the spotlight tomorrow (Sat) as the government’s patience is believed to be running thin with over the top celebrations.
David Moyes has made it clear that players remain nervous of taking covid back to their families after training and games.
Now the Premier League and English Football League are determined to ensure that players ensure they keep all celebrations within the limits.
When the game re-stared last season celebrations were kept to a minimum but this campaign physical contact has clearly increased.
We understand that the Hammers squad, probably like all others, has been told to ensure there is no hugging, shaking hands or swapping shirts when they meet Burnley tomorrow and going forward
The top-flight last week issued new protocols, including instructions for players to avoid mass celebrations, hugging, and they are now set to write to referees to instruct them to remind captains before games to stick to the guidelines.
EFL’s new chief executive, Trevor Birch, has written to his clubs to warn of “extreme governmental pressure if we continue to flout rules and guidance”.