Steven Gerrard has given his thoughts after the SPFL contacted Rangers and all other 41 member clubs seeking opinions on how to deal with another curtailed season, as quoted by the Scotsman.
The 2019/20 season was controversially ended early amid the global health crisis, with Celtic awarded the Premiership title despite not mathematically securing it on the pitch.
Hearts, Partick Thistle and Stranraer were relegated from the Premiership, Championship and League One, respectively, despite all three clubs having had a chance to avoid that fate if their remaining fixtures had been played.
At present, there’s no immediate concern that the 2020/21 campaign will suffer the same fate.
However, following a series of postponements in the top flight in recent weeks, the SPFL are attempting to make formal plans for how to deal with titles, promotions and relegations, should the worst-case scenario come to pass.
“I hope all the clubs are listened to,” said Gerrard, as quoted by the Scotsman. “It’s only fair if all the clubs are listened to and let’s hope they make the right decision for the game of football – what’s fair.”
“That’s all I ask for, fairness and clarity, then move forward. I don’t really want to get involved in answering questions about the politics of the game up here in Scotland.”
Steven Gerrard weighs in as Rangers contacted by the SPFL – Verdict
No Rangers player or member of staff has recorded a positive test this season, suggesting that the club have been disciplined in their following of the guidelines as well as benefitting from some good fortune.
Yet, other clubs have been hit heavily by positive cases, with St Mirren’s last two fixtures postponed as they were unable to field a team.
It’s clear that Gerrard doesn’t want to be drawn into saying too much on the issue and at this point, that’s probably a sensible stance to take.
He’s called for fairness across the board, though, and that’s a sentiment that’s likely shared by many in these uncertain times.
Clarity is also an important element. The uncertainty of last season cannot be repeated and clubs need to know what plans are in place in advance rather than having their fate put to them at the last minute.
No club should be disadvantaged by circumstances beyond their control, although the SPFL have a job on their hands drawing up plans, with the events of the spring evidencing how difficult it is to get a consensus of opinion from the 42 member clubs.
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