CHELSEA star Kepa Arrizabalaga claimed it is “absurd” to talk about dates to resume the Premier League season and says the health risk needs to “zero” before football returns.
The Blues have already ordered their foreign-based stars return back to London by Sunday as top-flight clubs start drawing up plans to resume training.
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Kepa Arrizabalaga has claimed that he has a good relationship with Chelsea boss Frank LampardCredit: AFP or licensors
The Government will review lockdown measures next week with many people expecting a slight lifting of travel and working restrictions.
But Kepa admitted that he is in favour of the highest protection possible and warned that it is difficult to talk about dates for a return.
He told MARCA: “It is a new situation and not an easy one. But whenever you talk about health, the rest is in the background.
“And you have to go back when the risk is zero. Then, we will need to do a pre-season, but when the risk is controlled.
“It is difficult to talk about dates, the players cannot control that. In Germany it is seen that the teams are already training together; in France, it has been suspended … We are waiting, and it will be decided with the health of everyone in mind.
“If the Premier returns soon, it will be a good sign that the pandemic is being controlled.
The relationship with Frank is very good. He has shown me confidence from the first moment.
Kepa Arrizabalaga on Frank Lampard
“I am in favour of maximum security. It is absurd to talk about dates to play. Everything, in time and when the authorities say.”
Kepa’s comments come after Man City striker Sergio Aguero said players are “scared” about returning to action.
Kepa also revealed his confidence that he still has the full support of Chelsea boss Frank Lampard after the Spaniard was linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge.
Before the coronavirus pandemic halted the season, the 25-year-old had been benched for Willy Caballero for five of the Blues’ last seven matches.
But Kepa added: “We play 50 or 60 games a year and it is difficult to stay on the same level.
“The important thing is to be very clear about the objective, to work and put everything into improving. There may be obstacles along the way, but when you have a clear objective, it is easier.
“The only thing that can be done, in these cases, is to take it professionally, respectfully and work harder to turn it around.
“The relationship with Frank is very good.
“He has shown me confidence from the first moment.
“He must make decisions, but I feel I have his confidence, both his and that of the whole club. We all like to play in every game.”
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Frank Lampard warns under-fire Kepa his Chelsea future is under threat amid Pope transfer links
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
