Its the new normal and applies to everyone returning to work. Football along with other sports have had their Covid secure guidelines provided and this is what they will have to do for the forseeable future. Many moaned it couldn't be done but we have football up and running and the new conditions are not too much to endure in the current climate IMO.
Does it disrupt the players? We won't know until the games start. Certainly having to travel on the day of the game for an away team can be an issue especially over three coaches. Weeds had to obtain special permission from the Welsh Government for their forthcoming games in Cardiff and Swansea where they have been put up in a key workers hotel. Not sure if we've been able to get a similar dispensation for our immediate away games but the normality of staying overnight will help.
At the ground they will face having to go through a sterile area into the red zone where only 110 people in total are allowed. Changing and team talks are bound to be affected as are the limits on physio involvement pre and post match which could impact our injury record.
We are being optimistic if we think we will carry on where we left off. It has been a long lay off and its like starting a new season so form is no guide. With the added lack of fans this will be a unique experience for everyone in football. Hopefully our team spirit and desire will carry us through the first few games.
Meantime the television companies continue to do their best to turn football into socker. Look out for the celebration camera when goals are scored FFS.
Strict protocols include no handshakes, no spitting or nose cleanring, no mass confrontations and using hand sanitisers before and after every match
www.theguardian.com