EPL clubs warned about social distancing

Drinks breaks and goal celebrations flagged as examples of when guidelines are being ignored

Jul 12, 2020 09:06 pm

The English Premier League has contacted all 20 clubs in England’s top flight regarding their players’ failure to adhere to social distancing guidelines during water breaks and goal celebrations, The Telegraph newspaper reported last Friday (July 10).

Following informal conversations between the league and government officials, the EPL has written to clubs reminding them of their responsibilities to encourage players to keep unnecessary contact to a minimum, The Telegraph said.

The drinks break was introduced, along with a number of other guidelines, as part of protocols for the EPL to return following its three-month suspension due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

While the break was primarily designed for the league to disinfect balls, goal posts and corner flags and for players to take in fluids, it has become more of a tactical time-out, with managers seen barking instructions at groups of players.

The report said that with lockdown measures in England easing and swimming pools and gyms set to reopen, there is a concern that the lack of social distancing in EPL games will set a wrong example for the public. – REUTERS