Premier League, FA, and EFL are confident that the 2020-21 season can be completed if the COVID protocols are to be followed with full compliance. In a  Joint Statement, the Football Authorities released Thursday, stating the importance to follow COVID protocols.

"Our three organizations have confidence in our COVID-19 protocols and our ability to bring the season to a successful conclusion," they said in the statement. 

"Safety is a collective effort and football requires the ongoing support of clubs, managers, players, and all those involved in staging matches to continue to manage the spread of infection and set the right example to the public on and off the pitch. We will offer guidance, education, and support as well as reviewing our practices to ensure they remain of the highest standard."

The new safety protocols include referees being told to maintain social distance with the fellow players especially while celebrating goals. Pep Guardiola, Frank Lampard, and other Football personalities have been critical of decision. Manchester City manager says hugging teammates is an instinctive reaction and that can't be prohibited.

The joint statement from the authorities concludes, "With full compliance to our COVID-19 protocols - alongside effective testing regimes - we are confident at the halfway point of the season that, with the support of all, the 2020/21 campaign will continue to its conclusion in May."