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English Premier League clubs have unanimously agreed to stage 1 of ‘Project Restart’ and will return to the first phase of training this week.
Following cordial talks among the 20 clubs, a path was cleared for players to return to training on Tuesday, ahead of a possible return of matches on June 19.
According to Mirror Football, players will now be able to train in groups of no more than five as clubs look to rebuild the fitness of their squads after football’s enforced hiatus.
The Premier League were able to flesh out much more detail at their latest meeting, as club were reassured over the safety protocols put in place to protect their players.
A study by research company STATsports was reportedly cited by the league as it was put to clubs that it is possible to train successfully while enforcing two metre social distancing, while some clubs also presented their own research.
It is also believed that last weekend’s return of Bundesliga action in Germany was repeatedly cited, as the Premier League and its clubs look to learn lessons from the successful return of one of the other top leagues in Europe.
A Premier League statement read: “Premier League Shareholders today voted unanimously to return to small-group training from tomorrow afternoon, the first step towards restarting the Premier League, when safe to do so.
“Step One of the Return to Training Protocol enables squads to train while maintaining social distancing. Contact training is not yet permitted.
“This first stage has been agreed in consultation with players, managers, Premier League club doctors, independent experts and the Government.
“Strict medical protocols of the highest standard will ensure everyone returns to training in the safest environment possible.
“The health and wellbeing of all participants is the Premier League’s priority, and the safe return to training is a step-by-step process.
“Full consultation will now continue with players, managers, clubs, the PFA and LMA as protocols for full-contact training are developed.”
Reacting to the news, shadow minister for sport Alison McGovern MP said: “Fans and players will be pleased to see a plan from the Premier League on how it will restart.
“This decision was no doubt informed by the Government’s advice to football bosses.
“To build trust with the public, the Government should put that advice in the public domain. As set out in new Government guidance last week, medical professionals will be crucial to the process.
“It is essential they are given a voice that is independent of both owners and government in the interest of transparency and above all, safety”.
