Former Premier League striker Noel Whelan has criticised West Ham United’s alleged stance that we are one of two teams to oppose the neutral venue proposal.
A report from Sky Sports said that the Hammers and Brighton were the only two teams out of the 20 Premier League sides that were against finishing the season in 8-10 non-affiliated stadium.
With football currently suspended, a solution has yet to be determined regarding the conclusion of the 2019/20 campaign, with Gordon Taylor suggesting that halves shorter than 45 minutes could be a possibility.
Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan believes that a compromise must be made in order to complete the campaign while targeting those clubs that are reportedly against change.
If true, are West Ham right to object?
Yes
No
“I empathise with them because nobody wants to be playing away from home,” he said.
“Even without any fans it is a ground that is familiar to them and they know how to play on that pitch. To play in neutral venues would be to play on an even playing field with no advantage.
“But if that is what is required to finish the season then it is required. If there is only two clubs complaining then they do not have a leg to stand on quite frankly. You have to go with the guidelines and there will be a majority vote.
Whelan added that everyone wants to see football back in Premier League stadiums and on our screens, but believes people need to stop whinging about where football needs to take place and have a more liberal attitude about the current situation we find ourselves in.
First of all, the Sky Sports story is simply just a report with no fact behind it. So for Whelan to attack us in the way that he has is a bit harsh.
Secondly, West Ham are allowed to think and behave as they choose during these unprecedented times. We would need backing from 13 other clubs to force a decision but that does not stop us from having a view on things.
Premier League football will return at some point. Of course, clubs will have their own views on it. Let’s see what is resolved from the next meeting.
