We are doing WHATEVER IT TAKES to get the season finished and get all matches played as soon as it is safe and possible

IT is an unprecedented time for the country, let alone football, and my thoughts are with everyone affected by Covid-19.

Firstly, let me address what I said last week in my column.

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We will hopefully see fans returning to watch football before long – but not until it is safe to do so

I did NOT say (and I ask you to please go back and read what I actually said) the season should be declared null and void now.

I said that was an option only if the season could not be completed — but of course we hope it will be.

What you need to know is that we are doing everything we can to ensure the season does continue — and that all domestic and European matches are played as soon as it is safe and possible to do so.

All of football is committed to finishing the leagues and playing out the remainder of the games.

Now that Uefa has postponed Euro 2020 this creates space in the calendar to ensure domestic and European matches have an increased opportunity to be played.

Rules stating that the season must be completed by June 1 no longer apply, so it can be extended indefinitely.

We are doing whatever it takes to ensure the season finishes.

All football has been postponed until April 30.

Everyone here at West Ham is pulling together to support one another and, of course, assist the national effort to delay the spread of the virus.”

After that date we hope matches can again commence, behind closed doors if required.

But we continue to follow government advice because the progress of Covid-19 remains unclear and the health and welfare of players, staff and supporters remain our priority.

Every club has asked players to stay at home for the next few weeks so we can follow the advice of social distancing and to help others stay safe.

Players all have their individual fitness plans, gym equipment, and of course the support they need to ensure they stay fit and well to play the games when they do recommence.

Our stadiums, training ground and offices have been deep cleaned and every possible measure to provide a safe and sterile environment has been taken so when football does restart, everyone remains safe and well.

Behind the scenes people are working from home — and we are also working really hard at measures to support business continuity — despite the challenges that being unable to play Premier League football for a period of time naturally present.

Everyone here at West Ham is pulling together to support one another and, of course, assist the national effort to delay the spread of the virus.

Our priority and focus is the well-being of our colleagues, their families and everyone who is a part of the West Ham United family — and our main aim is keeping everyone safe.

What I can promise is that when football does start again, we will be ready to play and ready to finish the season.

I look forward to when that day comes — as I am sure the whole nation also ­­does.

After all, nothing quite beats watching Premier League football.

But in the meantime, look after yourselves and each other.

Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk