Project Restart: Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham concerned for family health as Premier League nears return

Matt Davies14 May 2020

Chelsea forward Tammy Abraham insists the Premier League should not return until it is safe to do so, revealing his concern for his family's well-being.

The Premier League has been suspended since March 13 due to the coronavirus but is planning a June return after the government gave the green light for a behind closed doors resumption - despite players not yet able to participate in group training.

While 'Project Restart' talks continue to search for the safest method to restart the Premier League, there is a perhaps growing sense that return next month may be premature.

And Abraham, who lives with his parents and siblings - of which his father suffers from asthma - has now joined the likes of Sergio Aguero, Raheem Sterling and Danny Rose, all of whom have voiced concerns.

"The most important thing for me is for everyone to be well and safe, and for things to start opening up," Abraham told reporters. "Then, by all means, football can always come back. If it's safe to do so let's do it, but if it's not then we will wait.

AFP via Getty Images

"My dad has asthma, so if I was to return to the Premier League and, God forbid, I do catch this disease and bring it home it's the worst thing possible."

The 22-year-old reveals he may have to isolate in a hotel to avoid his family if and when the Premier League does return. And while the Englishman insists he's desperate to play once again, he admits the regular criticism footballers face has been difficult to deal with.

On one side, the government insist the Premier League's return will offer a welcome boost to the nation, while others maintain it's too early. But ultimately, while it's the footballers that put themselves at risk, many believe the decision should be entirely up to them.

"We are humans - we do have feelings as well," Abraham added. "I'm watching Sky News, waiting for Boris [Johnson] to make an announcement. We're following what's going on in the world and trying to see if it's safe or not to go back to football.

"If we can help, we will, whether that's in terms of finance or in other ways, to help people, motivate them and give life back to the country. It's a tough one. I just want to be safe and healthy."

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