One step closer to kick-off: English Premier League clubs return to contact training

Premier League soccer clubs on Wednesday voted unanimously to return to contact training, including tackling, as the English top flight moved a step closer to a resumption after the shutdown caused by the novel coronavirus pandemic.

A statement following a meeting of all 20 clubs, 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.”

Failure to resume the season could cost the league around £750 million ($1.38 billion) in lost revenue from broadcasters according to British media estimates.

Clubs last week began the first phase of ‘Project Restart’ after agreeing to a return to training in small groups under strict limitations and no contact.

The announcement that phase two can commence follows 1744 coronavirus tests on players and staff, which produced eight positives, including Watford defender Adrian Mariappa and Bournemouth keeper Aaron Ramsdale.

A third round of testing took place on Monday and Tuesday with the results not yet back.

No matches have been played in the Premier League since March when the coronavirus pandemic shut down world sport.

However, Wednesday’s vote is a big step towards the league completing the 92 remaining fixtures.

On Thursday Premier League shareholders will discuss the business aspects of ‘Project Restart’, including a possible broadcast rebate and what to do if the season is curtailed.

Some reports said clubs could lose out even if the league restarts should broadcasters demand a £330 million ($610 million) rebate.

Phase two allows up to 10 players to work together and would ease the time restrictions on training sessions and let players to be closer.

The third phase would be a move to a more typical form of training in the build-up to actual games.

The league had signalled June 12 as a potential start date but it now looks likely to be later in the month. Matches would be held without fans in attendance.

-AAP