FIFA president Gianni Infantino has urged Prime Minister Boris Johnson to issue his support in convincing Premier League clubs to allow their players to feature in upcoming World Cup qualifiers, some of which will take place in countries on the UK's red-list.
Infantino has claimed that all clubs have a responsibility to allow players to travel during next month's international break despite fears of another outbreak of Covid-19.
English outfits are not the only clubs to make this decision, all teams in La Liga have also said any of their players that are required to make an appearance in a red-listed country will be forbidden from going.
Infantino explained: “We have faced global problems together in the past and must continue to do so in the future. The release of players in the upcoming international windows is a matter of great urgency and importance. I am grateful for the support and cooperation from many stakeholders in the game during this challenging period."
He continued to urge the same from England and Spain's respective footballing associations: "I am calling on a show of solidarity from every member association, every league, and every club, to do what is both right and fair for the global game.
"Many of the best players in the world compete in leagues in England and Spain, and we believe these countries also share the responsibility to preserve and protect the sporting integrity of competitions around the world."
Infantino went on to address England directly, claiming: "On the issue of quarantine restrictions in England, for players returning from red-list countries, I have written to Prime Minister Boris Johnson and appealed for the necessary support, in particular, so players are not deprived of the opportunity of representing their countries in qualifying matches for the FIFA World Cup, which is one of the ultimate honours for a professional footballer."
The FIFA president revealed that he had pitched the idea of playing the fixtures with a reduced capacity in the crowd, much like the last few games of Euro 2020 that were held at Wembley Stadium.
Should the upcoming international break be going ahead as planned? Have your say here.
"I have suggested that an approach similar to that adopted by the UK government for the final stages of the EURO 2020 be implemented for the upcoming international matches.
"Together we have shown solidarity and unity in the fight against COVID-19. Now, I am urging everyone to ensure the release of international players for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers."
