This archive report was first published on 17 May 2020.
As the UK government gives the green light for sports to resume behind closed doors, Newcastle manager Steve Bruce has expressed concerns about the risks of coronavirus in football's return.
Speaking to the Sunday Telegraph, Bruce warned that his players may not be fit to return to action until the end of June, citing the eight-week break they have had as the longest in their careers.
"You have to remember that they have had eight weeks off and that is probably the longest break some of these players have had in their careers," he said.
He emphasized the need for sufficient preparation time to get the players back into shape, warning that without it, they could "fall down like a pack of cards" with injuries.
"If we were doing pre-season, we would have six weeks and probably have six friendly games to get them ready for the first league match," Bruce explained.
He also pointed out that the measures being put in place to protect players, such as regular testing and disinfected equipment, make everyday activities like going to the supermarket or filling up a car with petrol more risky.
"Certainly, the measures being put in place, you're probably more at risk going to the supermarket or putting petrol in your car," he added.
Despite these concerns, Bruce believes that most of his players are in favour of returning to finish the season, and that the measures being put in place will help to mitigate the risks.
