The Ground Safety Advisory Group (GSAG) at Liverpool City Council have approved that the upcoming Merseyside Derby between The Reds and Everton will take place behind closed doors at the Goodison Park on Sunday, 21 June 2020.

Merseyside police had filed a recommendation that the game be held at a neutral venue amid current public health fears due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Merseyside Derby is one of the fiercest rivals in the Premier League, and Liverpool could theoretically lift their first title in 30 years, hence the fear that fans might congregate outside and celebrate, contravening social distancing rules.

However, the Liverpool City Council held a meeting with necessary stakeholders, including the Merseyside Police, Liverpool and Everton football clubs as well as the Spirit of Shankly and Blue Union supporters groups, to discuss the realization of public health protocols for the match.

On Wednesday, 10 June, Deputy mayor of Liverpool and chairperson of GSAG, Wendy Simon, approved a safety certificate for the usage of both Merseyside stadiums, Goodison Park and Anfield.

Liverpool and Everton will now walk out from the Goodison tunnel on Sunday, 21 June 2020.

Image Credit: Source