Ballboys are not likely to return when top-flight football does, with each club expected to nominate members of their ground and maintenance staff to carry out the role.
In addition to those with the fourth official, eight balls will be placed behind the LED boards and, when one goes out of play, the trusty workers will be expected to race after it, disinfect it and put it back in place.
The move has caused much merriment among those not expecting to be nominated. Spare a thought for whoever ends up with the gig at West Ham, given the London Stadium's spacious layout.