Chelsea ban celebrations in training to aid fight against coronavirus
According to the Evening Standard, Chelsea have decided to ban celebrations in their training sessions.
This comes after Premier League clubs were instructed to reduce physical contact between players to stem the spread of the coronavirus. This also includes preventing players from celebrating in matches.
Chelsea boss Frank Lampard recently defended the players, going on to cite the difficulties they face in ensuring that the games go ahead despite restrictions. (h/t Sky Sports)
“We practise social distancing as much as we can in the training ground.”
He did, however, admit that the club will have to institute the new regulations. Lampard admits that measures have been taken to ensure players stay as safe as possible in training.
“It’s something I will pass on to the players and you see a lot of these group hugs now when they win a five-a-side so that will be something we’ll look at.”
While it is not possible to completely eliminate contact in a sport such as football, teams have been trying to do their best. As role models, players will have to do their part for the greater good.
Easy targets?
Lampard also went on to add that footballers should not be the target of accusations that may not be levied elsewhere. While he is in favour of calling out wrongdoing, it should not amount to scapegoating.
“They have been really tough times for everyone and it’s certainly not just footballers who have made mistakes.”
Lampard also voiced doubts over suggestions referees should be instructed to book anyone failing to comply with the latest guidance.
Football is an emotional game and at times a dramatic moment could evoke feelings of emotion that could gain precedence. While it may prove to be difficult to eradicate emotion completely from the game, players and clubs should do what they can. After all, most of them already are.
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Chelsea temporarily shut down their Cobham academy training centre earlier this week due to an outbreak of Covid-19 in the facility.
Thankfully, the senior side, academy, and women’s squads were kept in separate bubbles. This at the very least would prevent the virus from spreading across all the squads at the club. (h/t Daily Mail)