A hush is descending around Premier League grounds. Why has it come to this? Any explanation would have to start with money …
The Premier League returns this weekend and with it the question of which adjective describes the competition most accurately. Is it the “best” league in the world, the “most competitive” or simply the “richest”? One description often applied, perhaps because it’s suitably non-specific, is the most exciting league in the world. Step into a ground on match day, however, and you may be forgiven for doubting this was the case.
Television montages remain full of crazy crowds and foreign pros continue to talk up the atmosphere at Premier League grounds but fans know this does not match up with reality. Most matches at most grounds are not rocked by a cacophony of passionate fans. They are largely quiet, frustrated places, enlivened only by goals or perceived malfeasance on the part of referees. Away fans regularly out‑sing home support but even they are getting tired. “Is this a library?” is the most common chant at grounds I’ve visited this season.
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