SIMON Francis admits he does not expect Cherries to take on Newcastle on April 4 as scheduled, adding: "The reality is it is likely the wait will be longer than we all first thought."

The Premier League is currently suspended until early next month due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with a meeting due to take place tomorrow to discuss when the season may be able to recommence with nine rounds of top-flight matches still to be completed.

Regardless of what is decided, Francis believes Liverpool, who currently sit 25 points clear of second-placed Manchester City, should be named champions.

Writing in The Sun, Francis said: "They are so far ahead at the top it would take something catastrophic for them not to win their first Premier League title.

"I would not be aggrieved by crowning them champions – it would be the right thing to do.

"But it would come down to a majority vote, as many things would.

"The problem is, would the Reds feel as happy celebrating in the circumstances, with no fans and no open-top bus parade?"

Francis went on to discuss the possibility of Cherries returning to action in little over two weeks time.

"I cannot see our home game with Newcastle on April 4 going ahead but we have to remain professional and act as if it will," he said.

"It is frustrating. We all want to get back as soon as possible, from the Premier League to grassroots.

"But the reality is it is likely the wait will be longer than we all first thought."