This archive report was first published on 18 May 2020.
On May 18, 2020, Premier League clubs unanimously voted to allow players to start socially distanced training in a bid to resume the season next month.
However, Premier League chief executive Richard Masters admitted that a target return date of June 12 may prove to be too ambitious.
“June 12 was a staging post; it wasn’t a firm commitment and what we don’t want to do is continue to move it around,” said Masters following a meeting of with the 20 top-flight clubs.
Strict medical protocols will be in place to ensure everyone returns to training in the safest environment possible, according to a Premier League statement.
Players will be required to train in groups of no more than five, with each player having a quarter of a pitch to work within, allowing for social distancing.
Despite concerns from some players, Britain’s Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden expressed hope for a return in mid-June, saying, “We are working hard with them to try and get it back, aiming for mid-June, but the number one test is public safety.”
