NOW EFL BAN PLAYERS FROM TAKING SHOWERS!

CHAMPIONSHIP players have been told they cannot have showers after training — unless they live more than an hour away — under strict new guidance from the EFL. The enhanced Covid-19 protocols were issued to clubs in all three EFL divisions this week, and make clear that players should arrive at training grounds in their kit and leave straight after the end of the session, unless they are facing a long journey home. The beefed-up protocols will see EFL clubs largely operate as they did during Project Restart last summer, although many measures — such as the closure of restaurants and canteens — will have a more significant impact than they did last year. During last summer, many clubs built outside dining areas to enable players to eat together in a Covid-secure manner after training, but that is impractical during winter. As a result, the only food on offer at most clubs will be ‘grab-and-go’ meals, leaving players to eat in their cars. The PFA have also urged players not to hug when celebrating goals. Chairman Gordon Taylor said: ‘It’s very difficult to just score and act as though nothing has happened. That’s what the game is all about, but that is part and parcel of the process, so they will be reminded.’