Lockdown football and the Saudi Pro League have one thing in common – joyless games played out in front of near-empty stadiums. But can you tell the difference in our Daily Star Sport quiz?
It’s hard to believe lockdown was five whole years ago. It’s also hard to believe elite footballers at the peak of their powers would rather play in front of 150 people in Saudi Arabia than turn out in the Premier League.
The astonishing financial rewards offered by Saudi Pro League clubs have proved too hard to resist for many stars. Just look at Ivan Toney. Although the alternative was joining the worst Manchester United team ever, so maybe he made the right choice.
From the questionable decision of Jordan Henderson – who definitely didn’t go just for the money – to that of fellow Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard, who definitely didn’t go to improve his chances of getting another top job, many of the game’s biggest names have chased the Saudi coin.
All too predictably, those who’ve made the move to the Middle East have found themselves strutting their stuff in stadiums with crowds so sparse they could be forgiven for thinking covid restrictions were in place.
No one wants to experience dreaded lockdown football again – even if we were entertained by hearing every word of Frank Lampard’s touchline spat with Jurgen Klopp.
But with our tongue firmly in our cheek, Daily Star Sport have designed a quiz to see whether our loyal readers can tell the difference between a match where social distancing is enforced and a game in Saudi where fans stay away by choice.
Are you an expert in near-empty football stadiums – aka a Manchester City fan – who will have no trouble in spotting from a simple photo whether a game involves a state-backed club with a colossal financial advantage, or a Saudi Pro League side?
Or are you an Arsenal supporter who will struggle to differentiate between a deserted Emirates Stadium and another ground where none of the game’s most prestigious trophies have ever been lifted?
It’s time to test your knowledge!