Premier League issues statement on return to full contact training

A shareholders' meeting was held on Wednesday morning and the Premier League has released a statement.

Premier League clubs voted unanimously on a return to full-contact training after a meeting on Wednesday.

The decision marks the implementation of stage two of Project Restart, as the league continues to target a return to competitive fixtures in mid-June.

Manchester United and Manchester City were given permission to return to training while enforcing social distancing rules last Monday. United returned to training in groups of no more than five last Wednesday, while City's players began work at the CFA on Saturday.

United and City haven't played a domestic game since March 8, when the two sides contested the Manchester derby at Old Trafford. United played a Europa League game against LASK behind closed doors four days later, but City's scheduled game against Arsenal that same week was postponed.

"Premier League Shareholders today voted unanimously to resume contact training, marking another step towards restarting the Premier League season, when safe to do so," a statement said.

"Squads are now able to train as a group and engage in tackling while minimising any unnecessary close contact. 

"The Premier League’s priority is the health and wellbeing of all participants.

"Strict medical protocols are in place to ensure the training ground is the safest environment possible and players and staff will continue to be tested for COVID-19 twice a week. 

"Stage Two of the Return to Training protocol has been agreed following consultation with clubs, players, managers, the PFA, LMA and the Government.

"Discussions are ongoing as work continues towards resuming the season, when conditions allow."