DOS & DON’TS
BY LIAM BRYCE CELTIC and Ross County will become the first Premiership clubs to return to training today but it won’t be business as usual.
The two clubs are the first in Scotland to buy Covid-19 testing machines and they’ll have to adhere to strict regulations which may gradually be relaxed.
Players were tested yesterday with a view to beginning training today.
Record Sport has been shown a leaked document which sets out how the return will look.
PHASE 1
Under this phase football was shut down a few days before full UK lockdown on March 23.
No access to club facilities has been permitted or meeting up with team-mates. Clubs have ensured facilities are “Covid-secure”, with a Covid-19 officer nominated. PPE has been provided for staff and hygiene standards are as high as they can be.
PHASE 2
Players can return to training facilities for noncontact sessions with strict 2m distancing.
A pre-training Covid questionnaire has to be completed, temperatures checks will be conducted on arrival and players must wait in their cars before getting access to the pitch.
Players are required to arrive in training kit with changing rooms locked. Training equipment must be sanitised before and after sessions,.
Only injured players are allowed to use indoor gyms. Team meals and meetings remain off limits.
PHASE 3
Outdoor training remains unchanged, only non-contact sessions are permitted and the 2m rule still applies.
Clubs can conduct small sessions in indoor gyms. Everyone must wear a mask. Canteens and changing rooms remain locked and team meetings are not yet allowed.
PHASE 4
Squad contact training can be resumed.
Players will be allowed to change on-site but this contact time is to be kept to a minimum, while food can be provided by staff. Saunas, pools and steam rooms remain closed.
Players and managers should complete media duties remotely. Meeting rooms must only be used when absolutely necessary.
Masks and other PPE are still required throughout.