MLS opens up training fields for individual workouts

Montreal Impact head coach Thierry Henry, left, gives instructions next to new designated player Victor Wanyama during a practice on Wednesday [COURTESY]

Players will be able to use outdoor team training fields for solo workouts from next Wednesday, Major League Soccer said on Friday as the sport takes its first steps towards a return to action following the shutdown forced by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Like most North American sport, MLS shuttered operations mid-March and a league wide moratorium on group and team training remains in place through May 15.

Players will not be allowed access to club facilities, including locker rooms, gyms or training rooms.

MLS emphasized that all individual workouts, which are voluntary, must be conducted in compliance with detailed health and safety protocols in consultation with medical and infectious disease experts.

Even just getting back onto the pitch will not be easy.

Teams must first submit to MLS a club-specific plan that outlines how the team will implement protocols.

Individual workouts will be staggered with each player getting a designated parking spot to maintain maximum distance between vehicles.

Players and staff will be screened with temperature checks on arrival and must wear personal protective equipment coming on and off the field, which will be divided into four quadrants with a maximum of one player per quadrant.

By AFP 7 hrs ago
Football
Arsenal, Liverpool fight to keep Premier League race alive
Athletics
World hammer silver medallist Kassanavoid eyes glory at Nyayo on Saturday
Athletics
Eldoret City Marathon to have a bigger 10km fun run
Athletics
'School boy' Tebogo promises to teach his seniors a lesson at Kip Keino Classic