Chelsea manager Frank Lampard says starting next season on 12 September is “too early”, given his side’s schedule.
The 2020-21 start date was confirmed last month but Chelsea face Bayern Munich on Saturday in a rescheduled Champions League last-16 second leg.
Even if the Blues do not overturn a 3-0 deficit, they will have just 35 days before the new Premier League season.
Frank Lampard appeals to Premier League to delay Chelsea’s start to next season – @Matt_Law_DT https://t.co/m4n83YuwYd
— Telegraph Football (@TeleFootball) August 2, 2020
“Players need to be given a break to play at the level and quality the Premier League is,” Lampard said.
Lampard saw winger Willian and midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek pull out on the eve of Saturday’s FA Cup final through injury, then lost defender Cesar Azpilicueta and forward Christian Pulisic to hamstring problems during the 2-1 defeat by Arsenal at Wembley.
Frank Lampard reflects on yesterday's #HeadsUpFACupFinal defeat… pic.twitter.com/gtSjHIpe6J
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 2, 2020
“I would like to think the Premier League would look seriously at that,” he added.
“Hopefully they give us a fair start next season. Even in a worst-case scenario – we don’t go through against Bayern – the 12th feels too early for me for the players to start playing again.”
Manchester City also remain in the Champions League, the final of which is on 23 August, while Manchester United and Wolves are still involved in the Europa League, which has its final on 21 August.
Source: bbc.co.uk
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