Project Restart latest: Premier League clubs vote unanimously in favour of training return

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Premier League clubs have voted unanimously in favour of a return to group training on Tuesday in a major boost to Project Restart.

At Monday morning's shareholders' meeting via video-conference, clubs approved the protocols around "phase one" training and set a tone of consensus as the competition aims for a June 19 restart.

The build-up to the meeting was punctuated by a number of players, including Raheem Sterling, Troy Deeney and Sergio Aguero, expressing concerns over returning to action in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, while Watford and Chelsea – fourth from bottom and fourth from top, respectively – understood to be particularly concerned at the speed of developments.

But Monday's meeting was said to be positive, with clubs encouraged by the return of the Bundesliga over the weekend.

"Phase One" training will permit players to train in groups of four or five with strict social distancing guidelines observed while at the training centres.

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It could last for two weeks, before three weeks of "Phase Two" full-contract training in the build-up to the league's restart.

Clubs remain united in their desire to play at their home stadiums but the issue was not voted on this morning, with another meeting arranged for Friday.

A Premier League statement read: "Premier League Shareholders today voted unanimously to return to small-group training from tomorrow afternoon, the first step towards restarting the Premier League, when safe to do so.

"Step One of the Return to Training Protocol enables squads to train while maintaining social distancing. Contact training is not yet permitted.

"This first stage has been agreed in consultation with players, managers, Premier League club doctors, independent experts and the Government.

"Strict medical protocols of the highest standard will ensure everyone returns to training in the safest environment possible.

"The health and wellbeing of all participants is the Premier League’s priority, and the safe return to training is a step-by-step process.

"Full consultation will now continue with players, managers, clubs, the PFA and LMA as protocols for full-contact training are developed."

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