The
Mayor of London has written to Premier League and Championship clubs in the
capital requesting their assistance in the fight against coronavirus.
Top tier and EFL football has been suspended since March 19 in a bid to curb
the spread of the virus.
London has been badly hit by the pandemic and City Hall, working alongside
NHS colleagues, believes football clubs can help with providing access to
facilities, accommodation and clinically trained personnel.
Many are already working in the community and Sadiq Khan has written to nine
clubs across the top two divisions in the capital to ask to support the NHS
during these "unprecedented times".
"London is currently at the forefront of the UK's response to slow the
spread of coronavirus, and the Greater London Authority (GLA) is working
hard to help support the NHS in London," the Mayor of London wrote to clubs.
"Whilst the NHS is currently doing a fantastic job in responding to the
crisis, NHS staff are already feeling the additional strain and that is why
we need to give them the time, space and support they need to save the lives
of Londoners.
"I am clear that I will do everything I can to support the capital during
the coronavirus crisis and that means giving the NHS the vital resources it
needs to treat those in need. This is where I hope football clubs across
London will be able to help."
Khan added: "I do not take such requests lightly and I appreciate that this
is a big ask in what is currently a challenging and uncertain time for many
of London's football clubs.
"However, I am clear that we all need to unite and do what we can to support
the NHS and protect the lives of Londoners in these most challenging of
circumstances."
Khan wrote to Arsenal, Chelsea, Crystal Palace and West Ham, along with
Championship teams Brentford, Fulham, Charlton, Millwall and QPR.
Tottenham did not receive a letter in this round as they are already working
with City Hall, while Watford were not contacted as they are just out of the
Greater London area.
The Mayor of London said in a statement: "As we work together to tackle the
threat of coronavirus, the community spirit of London's football clubs has
shone through. Many have already offered support and are assisting the
response in their local communities.
"This week, I have written to the capital's Premier League and Championship
clubs outlining what they can do to help our fantastic NHS and I'm grateful
for the hugely positive response we have received."
top