Merseyside Police confirm 'no objections' to Liverpool staging home matches once Premier League resumes
Further doubt has been cast on plans for neutral venues to be used for a number of remaining Premier League fixtures after Merseyside Police revealed they have "no objections" to either Liverpool or Everton playing at home.
In the aftermath of the English top-flight's June 17 return date being announced on Thursday, it was reported that several fixtures could be moved after being deemed 'high-risk' by police.
Those plans appeared to be confirmed on Friday when the National Police Chiefs' Council football policing lead, deputy chief constable Mark Roberts, revealed discussions had taken place.
Four Liverpool fixtures, including the Merseyside derby and the game in which they are expected to win the title, were said to be among the matches that would be moving to neutral venues.
However, the Premier League have since insisted that their preference remains for all fixtures to be played at their original venues - a plan that has received strong backing from Merseyside Police.
The force's assistant chief constable Rob Carden said: "Merseyside Police is ready to provide whatever policing is required of us in relation to games being played at our Premier League stadia once the season restarts.
"In relation to crime and disorder we have no objections to any of the Everton or Liverpool home fixtures being played at their respective grounds.
"We have a good working relationship with both clubs, and their fan groups, and are content that we can work together in advance of the restart of the season.
"Decisions in relation to public health risk are made by the Government and Public Health England and ultimately the final decision rests with the Safety Advisory Group, which is chaired by Liverpool City Council in line with the decisions made nationally in relation to sporting events."
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