Many of the country’s best footballers including Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, Manchester City’s Riyad Mahrez and Chelsea’s Ngolo Kante, are expected to fast this month and will abstain from eating or drinking during daylight hours during an important period of self-reflection for Muslims.
A guideline has reportedly been issued to match officials so the players can break their fast with liquids, energy bars or supplements on the touchline whilst the game is paused.
Officials have also been encouraged to identify any players who may need to break their fast during the game before kick-off, and agree on a time for the same.
As per Sky Sports, refereeing bodies have issued guidance to match officials across leagues in England to allow a natural break in play during evening games. The momentary pause will allow Muslim players observing Ramadan to break their fast by drinking water, consuming energy gels or taking supplements.
They have also been encouraged ahead of the kick-off to try and identify any players who may need to break their fast during the game, and where possible to agree a rough time for this to happen.
The Football Association and PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Ltd) have been contacted for comment.
Ramadan, which is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community begins this year from Wednesday evening (March 22) until the evening of Friday April 21.