Premier League will play the national anthem before matches this weekend while a minute’s applause on the 70th minute will also be held to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s reign.
Premier League clubs will play the national anthem ahead of kick-off in matches due to be held this weekend to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s passing.
All fixtures across the pyramid were postponed last weekend as a mark of respect following the monarch’s passing on Thursday, with the Football League getting back underway this week.
The Premier League is due to resume this weekend and officials confirmed in a statement on Wednesday that the national anthem will be played following the planned minute’s silence at each game.
In addition to God Save the King being played for the first time across Premier League grounds, managers will also be encouraged to wear suits on the touchline, while a minute’s applause will ring out across the country on the 70th minute to mark all the years of the Queen’s reign.
UEFA had rejected requests from Chelsea, Manchester City and Rangers to play God Save the King before their respective Champions League fixtures this week.
It is expected Rangers will defy the European governing body in their match against Napoli on Wednesday evening.
Under plans approved by the Premier League, screens will display tribute images to Her Majesty – who died at the age of 96 on Thursday – and flags at grounds will be flying at half-mast.
‘All Premier League matches between Friday 16 and Sunday 18 September will provide an opportunity for the League, clubs and fans to come together to pay tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, honouring her extraordinary life and contribution to the nation and world,’ the Premier League said in a statement.
‘Players and match officials will wear black armbands as a mark of respect and, together with managers, will gather at the centre circle before kick-off.
‘Fans will be asked to join a minute’s silence, which will be followed by the national anthem, God Save The King.
‘Big screens and LED perimeter boards will display tribute images to Her Majesty and flags at the grounds will be flying at half-mast.
‘When the clock turns to 70 minutes, fans will be invited to applaud The Queen’s 70-year reign.’
England’s top division will get back underway after a weekend’s break this Friday, although three games have been called off.
Liverpool’s trip to Chelsea and Leeds’ visit to Manchester United have been postponed owing to police shortages with the arrangements for the Queen’s funeral, due to be held on Monday, requiring enormous police resources.
