Premier League footballers will resume training from tomorrow (19 May), the first step towards resuming the English top division season following the novel coronavirus (Covid-19)-enforced shutdown.

Shareholders voted unanimously in favour of the return to small-group training, which enables squads to train while maintaining social distancing. This has been agreed in consultation with players, managers, club doctors, independent experts and the government.

At this stage, full-contact training – such as tackling – will not be permitted.

A consultation with players, the Professional Footballers Association and the League Managers Association will continue, in order to develop protocols for full-contact play.

The Premier League said strict medical protocols will ensure all players can train in the safest possible environment.