Leeds forced to install AstroTurf on Elland Road steps
Leeds are forced to install AstroTurf on Elland Road steps due to safety risk with the Premier League concerned over opposition players slipping while heading to the pitch
- Away teams have to enter the pitch through the stands due to Covid measures
- Premier League have raised the alarm over visiting stars tripping and falling
- Leeds say they acted swiftly to install AstroTurf and address the problem
Leeds United have been ordered to install AstroTurf on the Elland Road steps amid fears they present a slip hazard and could cause injury to opposition players.
The Premier League are understood to have raised the alarm over visiting stars tripping and falling between the Yorkshire club’s temporary away dressing rooms and the pitch.
Because of the pandemic, visiting sides are getting changed in former bar and hospitality areas behind the goal in the Norman Hunter Stand, and are showering in temporary cabins on the car park.
Hull City players enter the Elland Road pitch via the empty stands due to coronavirus measures
Their route to the pitch takes them down a number of steps through the stand. A lack of any protective surface meant that players in boots were walking on concrete, which officials believe created a safety concern and could have led to injury.
They are understood to have raised the matter with Leeds, who say they acted swiftly to install Astroturf and address the problem. A compliance officer is also known to have flagged the lack of an effective referee bell in the away area — a matter which was also rectified.
Clubs across the League have had to come up with inventive ways to abide by Covid protocols. The requirement for social distancing means that most clubs have had to declare traditional away team dressing rooms off limits. That has created a series of logistical issues, with many bringing in temporary buildings to house visiting clubs.
A Leeds spokesman said: ‘The only concerns raised by the compliance team from the Premier League have been regarding the referee bell and a need for some AstroTurf on the steps leading to the pitch — both of which have been resolved.’
Leeds have been ordered to install AstroTurf on the Elland Road steps to prevent slipping
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