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Bristol Post
Bristol Post
Sport
David Byrom

Leaked EFL protocol reveals strict plans Bristol City, Leeds United and others must follow in return

Championship players will be asked to conduct coronavirus tests themselves according to leaked EFL protocol.

The BBC report that, after the first batch of testing at training grounds on Thursday and Friday, tests will be "self-administered" on the morning of training twice a week.

Guidance from the EFL comes ahead of a planned return to training on Monday, but the governing body's protocol says any player who test positive must isolate for 14 days if they are not showing symptoms.

Lee Johnson during training at Ashton Gate (Rogan/JMP)

Those that do show symptoms and test positive must isolate for seven days, whilst those showing symptoms but test negative must isolate for seven days and retest.

It is a shift from the Premier League's guidance, who said those that test positive must isolate for seven days regardless.

Players must opt-in to training by providing written confirmation that they agree to take part.

The EFL's protocol has reassured players that they will have the opportunity to opt out at any sage.

Championship clubs will have to train in small groups of five for a maximum of 75 minutes, with footballs and other equipment being disinfected pre- and post-session.

Social distancing between individuals will be essential at all times, with the EFL recommending as few pieces of equipment are used as possible.

Tackling is prohibited and PPE may be required, such as when injured players enter the gym.

Players will not be allowed to talk in groups and treatment such as ice baths or showers are prohibited.

The protocol says that initial testing will be carried out at the training ground, but then players must test themselves.

It says: "Following the initial test, subsequent CATs will be self-administered and are to be performed at home on the morning of training on two specified days each week.

"This forms part of the latest EFL guidance and will ensure minimal risk of cross-infection.

"Players and staff will be provided with instructions and guidance to assist with performing this.

"Samples must be handed to the medical staff on immediate arrival at the training ground so that they can be couriered to the designated lab.

"The testing laboratory and kits have been selected by the league and as such, we are not in control of these."

Each player will also be required to have a medical examination with the club doctor before the first day of training, with players and staff also completing a medical questionnaire on training days.

The plans come ahead of a potential return date of June 20 in the Championship.

There are still plenty of obstacles to overcome before the division resumes, but these in-depth protocols will be viewed as a positive by the likes of Bristol City, Leeds United and others who have expressed a desire to continue the campaign.

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