EPL teams committed to completing season despite COVID-19 uncertainty

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Premier League clubs agreed during a meeting Friday that completing the 2019-20 campaign is a top priority after the season was suspended in March due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Representatives from all 20 teams were reportedly set to discuss setting June 30 as an end date for the current season, but instead examined "possible scheduling models" without mention of an expected date when the campaign will be completed.

A statement from the Premier League, courtesy of BBC Sport, read: "In common with other businesses and industries, the Premier League and our clubs are working through complex planning scenarios.

"We are actively engaging with stakeholders, including broadcast partners, and our aim is to ensure we are in a position to resume playing when it is safe to do so and with the full support of the government. The health and wellbeing of players, coaches, managers, club staff and supporters are our priority and the League will only restart when medical guidance allows.

"Today's shareholders' meeting provided an opportunity to discuss possible scheduling models. It remains our objective to complete the 2019-20 season but at this stage, all dates are tentative while the impact of COVID-19 develops."

One scheduling scenario the clubs discussed was playing the 2019-20 season's remaining 92 matches in a 40-day window, according to BBC Sport's Laura Scott.

The league was initially expected to resume play at the beginning of May, but it was announced earlier in April that a return would only occur when "it is safe and appropriate."

Deaths in the United Kingdom related to COVID-19 have climbed to over 12,000 since the Premier League suspended play March 13.

Uncertainty over player contracts is one of the major concerns among Premier League teams since play was halted. Clubs could face the risk of losing players if the season resumes this summer, as many contracts are set to expire June 30.

FIFA recommended extending contracts until the current season ends following a meeting with clubs, players, leagues, national associations, and confederations earlier in April.

But Premier League players are not legally required to sign any agreements to extend their deals beyond the current June 30 deadline.

Additionally, UEFA has pleaded with European leagues to wait for guidance as it develops plans on how to complete the 2019-20 campaign.

European football's governing body will meet next week and will reportedly propose that all leagues finish their respective domestic campaigns at the same time later this summer. UEFA is also expected to announce plans to push the Champions League final back to August 29 after domestic seasons are finished.