Glenn Murray: Premier League should only return when it's safe to fill stadiums

Brighton striker Glenn Murray is eager to return to Premier League action but wants to do so in front of packed stadiums.
Glenn Murray does not want to play behind closed doorsGlenn Murray does not want to play behind closed doors
Glenn Murray does not want to play behind closed doors

The league is currently suspended until April 30 due to coronavirus and one option being discussed is to conclude the season behind closed doors.

The 2019-20 season was scheduled to end on June 1 but the FA agreed the campaign can be extended indefinitely.

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All clubs are committed to finding ways to finish the season as soon as it is safe to do so.

Glenn Murray takes the applause from the crowd after scoring at West Ham earlier this seasonGlenn Murray takes the applause from the crowd after scoring at West Ham earlier this season
Glenn Murray takes the applause from the crowd after scoring at West Ham earlier this season

"All professional athletes want to finish the league," said Murray speaking on Sky Sports. "But of course it all depends on timings, the virus and how quickly we can get over this.

"I watched a couple of games in Italy without fans and the game is just not the same.

"I think we can wait until we can fill the stadiums up and make it a celebratory atmosphere and enjoy being in the stadium together. Without the fans football is just not the same."

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Brighton players are being kept away from their training base in Lancing and the playing squad have individual programmes to work on at home.

Murray also said a group fitness app has been set-up where players and the manager Graham Potter will all log in for a group sessions. The first one was due to happen today.

"Our last gathering was on Monday last week and now we have set this app up where we will all be on there. I'm sure the gaffer will have a few words for us.

"I'm trying to keep fit. I have a bike down in the gym so I can use that and get a sweet on and as a club we start remote training where we all log on to an app and be able to see each and run through a few exercises.

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"More than anything it will be good to see the guys and have a bit of banter, have a chat and lift spirits."

Brighton are yet to record a victory in 2020 and are just two points above the relegation. Murray, 36, said it's important to use this time wisely so Brighton are fit and firing if and when play resumes this season.

"Everyone will be so bored they want to do some exercise as we are stuck in the house so I think everyone will go back pretty fit and raring to go when the Premier League resumes.

"We have not had a great 2020. It is time for us to regroup, work hard and get rid of any little niggles. We want to get back to work as soon as possible and try and get out the relegation fight as soon possible."