Manchester United chief Ed Woodward has suggested the return of the Premier League is near.
Football in England has been on hold for more than two months due to the coronavirus pandemic, but the Premier League took the first step towards a return this week with players returning to training.
And now United vice-chairman Woodward is saying games are likely to return in June, in line with the Premier League's target of June 12.
"While it is too soon to know with any certainty if, or when, these measures can fully be relaxed, we are optimistic that it will soon be possible to resume playing football," Woodward said in a statement.
"Our men’s first team has begun a phased return to training this week, with rigorous medical protocols in place to manage risks.
"Subject to government and Premier League shareholder approval, including input from medical staff and players, we anticipate domestic games could restart again in June. All indications from Uefa are that the culmination of the Europa League could be during August.
"We remain in constant dialogue with the Premier League, the FA and Uefa about the next steps towards returning to play, while continuing to protect the health of our players, staff and the wider public."
The return to training this week was phase one of the League's Project Restart.
Phase two will include contact training ahead of phase three, which is the continuing of the season.
