This archive report was first published on 4 August 2020.
Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has expressed concerns about the Premier League's September 12 start date, deeming it too early for his players to resume play.
With the current campaign still ongoing, Lampard's side will have just 35 days to recover before the new season begins.
Chelsea's participation in the Champions League, along with other Premier League clubs, has left them with a packed schedule.
Manchester City, Manchester United, and Wolves are also still in the Champions League and Europa League, respectively.
According to Lampard, the 30-day break agreed upon by Premier League clubs was not sufficient for teams playing in end-of-season European competitions.
"Even in a worst-case scenario, we don't go through against Bayern, the 12th feels too early for me for the players to start playing again," Lampard said.
"The players need a break. That is why we have pulled two hamstrings and had players pull out of the game before this," he added.
Lampard implored the Premier League to ensure a level playing field for all clubs, particularly those competing in European competitions.
"I would like to think the Premier League would look seriously at that," he said.
"Hopefully they give us a fair start next season. We deserve to be (given a fair start) as a Premier League club competing in the Champions League," Lampard concluded.
