'Warned' - Derby County defender reveals what it's like to be back training

The Championship campaign has been suspended since March due to the coronavirus pandemic but there is a desire to restart matches when it is safe to do so

Derby County's players have returned to the club's Moor Farm training ground this week.

They are working under the EFL's 'Return to Training Protocols'.

The Championship campaign has been suspended since March due to the coronavirus pandemic but there is a desire to restart matches when it is safe to do so.

Clarke, who is on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion, admits there is a different feel to the whole working day from a player’s perspective.

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Speaking to RamsTV, Clarke said: "It is very different in terms of how things work when being back in and we were warned in advance that there would be a different feel to the place.

"Usually a training ground is a hive of activity and there’s lots of socialising going on. During these times that is not something that is going to be possible.

"I think you realise in times like this, as many other people will have done as well, just how social work can be. You can take for granted the relationships you have with people you see every day.

"It is different, as I said, but it’s something we’re all willing to get used to if it means we can get back to playing football. It’s challenging, but this is the time we’re in right now."

Clarke has made 28 appearances for the Rams this season.

"It was nice to be back training and it almost had a beginning of the season feel to it," Clarke added.

"It was nice to see each other again and we’re pleased that it is back up and running. We had some programmes to follow, some tough ones, but nothing beats proper training.

"However much work you do on your own, it still takes time to get back into things again and obviously the people at the club will gauge how much work we need to do before going back (to playing games)."