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'Strange situation' – Exclusive: Thorp Arch regular delivers Leeds update amid shutdown
We’re delighted to welcome former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Leeds United…
Paul Robinson has said that the Thorp Arch shutdown is a “very strange situation for all concerned”.
Robinson, whose son is involved with the Leeds United academy, is part of the general club lockdown and he has said this is the “right thing to do until we get past this”.
All UK football is currently suspended until April 30 and possibly beyond, with the EFL and the Premier League looking at possible solutions to get the remaining 19/20 fixtures played.
Talking exclusively to MOT Leeds News Robinson said, “Thorp Arch is shut down completely. All the players are training at home the best they can. It’s a very strange situation for all concerned.
“Saying that, football’s no different to life in general in that respect – everything’s been hit.
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“Everywhere’s shut, there’s nothing to do. The lads have been told to stay away from the training ground, there’s no staff there, the stadium’s closed, the offices are closed, everything’s on full lockdown until, as is right, we get past this.”
Robinson believes the 19/20 season should be finished but isn’t in favour of playing games behind closed doors.
“It’s very difficult for the lower league clubs, who are struggling to pay their staff and the players. They’re so reliant on gate receipts, it’s crippling for the economy in general.
“Personally I’m not really in favour of playing behind closed doors as you’re there to entertain. Pep Guardiola made a fantastic point, saying it was like the cast of a theatre playing to an empty house… there’s not much point.”
Leeds chief Angus Kinnear was asked about the 19/20 season and he said it was “vital” the remaining nine fixtures are played.
His preference is to play with fans in attendance but said given a choice of playing behind closed doors or voiding the season, he’d take closed doors.
We imagine most Leeds fans will feel the same.
In other Leeds United news, ‘No… not now’, ‘Can’t see this ending well’ – Many Leeds fans react to Phil Hay Twitter update