The Premier League is set for a crucial vote on May 8 as talks continue over ways to conclude the 2019-20 season, sources have told ESPN.
Representatives of all 20 clubs took part in a four-hour video conference call on Friday at which they reaffirmed their commitment to completing the campaign whenever the coronavirus pandemic allows.
Various options were discussed but the league confirmed that nothing was finalised and conversations remain ongoing.
One source involved in the conversations told ESPN a firm instruction from the government was necessary to find a clear path forward. Once that is provided, a vote on if and how the season should be completed is expected.
Several issues were explored on Friday, including where matches will be played and the logistics of behind-closed-doors fixtures.
Sources have told ESPN several clubs raised strong opposition to the idea of neutral venues, even though this model would theoretically be easier to monitor and police as opposed to home and away fixtures which could encourage fans to gather outside stadiums.
However, the issue of the competition's integrity was raised -- specifically all teams benefitting from home advantage -- while there were also signs that clubs would help cover the cost of Personal Protective Equipment for matchday staff and testing of players if necessary.
It has been estimated that around 100,000 tests are required in order to safely resume the top four tiers of English football. The British government set itself a test to hit that number nationally by the end of April. On April 30, it announced 81,000 tests had been conducted.
However, capacity is set to increase significantly and the government's shift towards contact tracing -- tracking and testing infected people before isolating them -- would create a more receptive environment to the idea of tests being focused on one specific area, in this case, football.
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's declaration on Thursday the country was "past the peak" has raised hopes his government will soon ease the lockdown measures which have been in place for various weeks.
