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      Salford boss Richie Wellens desperate to get his players in the PUB – but coronavirus restrictions have thwarted him

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      RICHIE WELLENS knows one of the best ways to get into a player’s head is to get a drink into him.
      And if he could do that with his whole team, he might be able to break the mental block that he fears could cost him and Salford City promotion.

      How Richie Wellens’ pub sign might look

      Richie Wellens’ Salford are having an inconsistent season in League TwoCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      But the normal getting–to–know-you exercise he and most managers use to build team spirit and understanding is still impossible because of Covid restrictions.
      Wellens, who quit Swindon for the Ammies on November 4, would by now have had a few nights  out with his squad and staff.
      He declared: “Getting the lads out for a bite and a bit of a bevvy is a great way to find out what makes each individual tick.
      “Nobody is talking about throwing loads of alcohol down necks.

      “But it’s amazing how people start relaxing and letting themselves go a little when they’ve had a couple.
      “Having a good time is great for team bonding.
      “Not only do you get to know your players better, but they get a better picture of who you are.
      “But with the lockdown that hasn’t happened.

      Salford are owned by Man Utd’s ‘Class of ’92’Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      “By now I should have a far better understanding of what makes each player tick than I do.
      “It’s crucial that a new manager finds out who he is dealing with in the dressing room and what the best approach is to get the best out of each individual.
      “And, of course, after 23 games I have a good idea.
      “But in a way, some of them are still like strangers to me because of the Covid restrictions.
      “They show up for training on their own — socially distanced from each other — then go home to shower and change.
      “The players travel to away games on the team bus but me and my coaches have to go separately.
      “Things are complicated enough for all of the managers in these times — but more difficult still when you are taking over a new set of players.”
      Wellens worries about that lack of communication more because he can’t work out why his side keep throwing away points at the end of games.
      He said: “Since I got here we have lost 12 points from winning positions in the 90th minute.
      “That has to be about some psychological block — maybe it’s to do with the fact that this club has come so far, so fast.

      “We are the best footballing team in the division but that means  nothing if you don’t make it pay.”
      Wellens was brought in by Gary Neville and the rest of the members of Manchester United’s Class of ’92 to replace Graham Alexander.
      The 40-year-old, who last season took Swindon out of League Two, is charged with continuing the climb that has seen four promotions since Neville and Co took over seven years ago.
      He said: “My job was made clear from the start and it’s a challenge I gladly accepted.
      “Promotion is the target this  season without question.
      “But every time we look like  getting on a run we stumble — when we win two in a row, we can’t make it three.

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      “I’d love the chance to just sit around, have a meal, let the lads relax and really dig into what the problem is.
      “Pubs and restaurants will be fully open on May 17 but our season ends on May 8.
      “That’s too late for me to do what I’d normally do with a new bunch of players.
      “So I’m going to have to think up another way to find out what’s going on in their heads — socially  distanced, of course.” More

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      David Moyes urges Premier League NOT to allow fans back for last day of season – even though it could benefit West Ham

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      DAVID MOYES says for the integrity of the competition the Premier League must NOT allow fans back on the last day of the season – even though it could benefit West Ham.
      The government have announced 10,000 supporters or 25 per cent capacity will be clear to return in May.

      David Moyes has called on chiefs not to allow fans back for the final day of the seasonCredit: Rex Features

      West Ham are one of ten clubs who could have fans in for the last day of the campaignCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd

      That means they can be in attendance for the last day of the top flight season.
      The Hammers entertain Southampton in their final fixture which could decide whether they qualify for the Champions League.
      But Moyes says it is unfair some sides would benefit with home support while others do not.
      He said: “I am a little bit uneasy about them coming back for the last game of the season because it would be an advantage for one team and not the other to have them.

      “We use the word integrity many times in different periods of this pandemic.
      “And I would be really worried about one club getting an advantage.
      “So I think it is something that needs to be considered.
      “For the integrity of the game we just need to make sure there is a situation where people can’t say ‘this is an unfair advantage to one team or the other’ if we are only talking about one game of the season.”

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      Fans are looking forward to a bumper summer of sport

      West Ham are flying high in the top-flight as they prepare to face leaders Manchester City on Saturday.
      The East London outfit are battling it out with the big boys and Leicester for a place in the top four.
      They currently sit fourth after 25 games, two points ahead of rivals Chelsea.
      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

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      Euro 2020 WILL go ahead this summer with Uefa confident fans will be allowed to travel across Europe amid vaccine push

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      UEFA’S pandemic expert has promised Euro 2020 WILL definitely go ahead.
      And Dr Daniel Koch believes it is possible that fans will be able to travel across the continent in a response to the Covid vaccine roll-out.

      Dr Daniel Koch is hopeful that fans will be able to travel across Europe to attend matches at Euro 2020 this summerCredit: AFP – Getty

      Koch spent most of the past year battling the pandemic in his previous role as head of communicable diseases at Switzerland’s Federal Office of Public Health.
      He said: “There is no way the Euros will not happen. They will happen.
      “There is no worst case scenario. There are realistic scenarios and best-case scenarios.”
      Uefa will confirm the structure of the tournament in early April, with insiders at headquarters in Nyon still suggesting the planned 12 host city format is likely to remain.

      Koch conceded that, for now, there remain doubts over whether and how many fans will be allowed into the grounds.

      The ending of Covid restrictions in the UK opens the prospect of 90,000 full houses at Wembley, due to host seven games including England’s three group matches, both semi-finals and the final, by the end of the tournament.
      Koch added: “I think there will be a lot of flexibility at least up until the end of April.

      “A decision must be made at the beginning of April but then there is a lot of flexibility to say ‘now we can scale-up because the situation improved much more than expected’.
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      “I think the capacity percentages are much more than we imagine. 
      “In the autumn some countries were at 30 per cent in the grounds and I think it is possible more than 30 per cent by the summer.
      “It is very, very difficult to forecast. It is not only forecasting the epidemic, it is forecasting the politics. 
      “The feeling in Europe is still very sceptical that this pandemic will be in a good shape in June.
      “But if you look at the numbers and all the possibilities we have, I think we should plan in an optimistic way.
      “At the moment it is too early to say if fans will be allowed to travel.

      England boast the most-valuable squad of all Euro 2020 nations

      “We will see what the situation is and what is the requirement from the different countries but I hope that at least some travelling will be possible.
      “Every country has tried to protect itself but travel restrictions are not the main issue. 
      “The main issue is to keep this virus bound by detecting the case, finding the connections and have social distancing. But we are confident.”

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      FA Cup final could see at least 4,000 fans attend on May 15… two days BEFORE ban on supporters is lifted

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      THERE could be up to 4,000 fans in attendance for the FA Cup Final – even though it is TWO DAYS before supporter restrictions are lifted.
      Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed on Monday as part of the roadmap out of lockdown that 10,000 spectators could be allowed back into stadiums for sporting events from May 17.

      There could be at least 4,000 fans in attendance for the FA Cup Final in MayCredit: Getty

      UK fans can start looking forward to a bumper summer of sport

      The Wembley showpiece takes place on May 15 – but football now has the green light to host expansive test events in April ahead of the planned reopening of grounds.
      Whitehall chiefs held talks yesterday regarding pilot events and hope to release a schedule in the coming weeks.
      Despite hopes of getting 10,000 in for the Cup Final, a figure the FA will apply for, the governing body feel that a figure between 2,000 and 4,000 is more likely.
      The FA are desperate for the showpiece to be played in front of fans.

      However, they are unable to switch the date of the spectacle because of the upcoming Euros.
      They are due to hand the Wembley keys over to Uefa shortly after the game ahead of the tournament, although the EFL play-offs are scheduled for the end of May.
      But the final will provide an opportunity to test the new facilities ahead of the Euros.
      A test event with 10,000 fans needs to take place to demonstrate the safety of the stadium following recent structural and landscaping changes around the famous stadium.

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      England’s first group game is against Croatia on June 13, which means it still falls under the 10k capacity limit on the roadmap timeline.
      That means that match could be used as the test event.
      Although FA chiefs would prefer to test out the facility prior to that.
      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

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      Premier League clubs could BLOCK fans attending last game of season over fears of unfair advantage despite green light

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      PREM chiefs are in no rush to force through a decision on allowing fans into the last games of the campaign.
      PM Boris Johnson opened the way to crowds of up to 10,000 attending matches for the final weekend of the season in his Commons statement on Monday.

      Fans could yet be barred from attending the final day of the Premier LeagueCredit: Rex Features

      That opened the way for the Prem title to be handed over in front of supporters on May 23.
      But, as SunSport revealed, the issue is already dividing clubs who are concerned at the integrity of the Prem being put at risk by a one-off change of regulations. 
      And that ensures that while the issue will be discussed by the clubs at their next “shareholder” meeting, expected to be next week, no vote will be taken until potentially as late as May 10. 
      Fulham’s clash with Newcastle, which would see the gate capped at a maximum of 4,000 fans because of ongoing construction works at Craven Cottage, is one of the big issues with the possibility of a “loser goes down” scenario with millions of pounds at stake.

      While the 20 clubs agreed to the limited reopening of Prem grounds at the end of last year, when the “tier system” meant fans were only allowed at 10 venues, that saw just 2,000 at each game.
      It was also felt at the time that the limited numbers would prove a step towards more widespread reopening.
      The December lockdown scotched those plans and there have been no supporters allowed into matches since.
      Now the Government roadmap has signposted a major change from May 17, allowing up to 10,000 supporters, or 25 per cent of capacity, in for the outstanding midweek “catch-up” games and the last 10 matches.

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      But there are significant concerns that giving just 10 clubs a one-off advantage for potentially crucial matches.
      As the clubs voted to agree the current Covid protocols, they would also have to confirm any new regulations, requiring 14 to vote in favour.
      One way out might be if Prem chiefs received the green light from the Government to run a series of test pilots ahead of the May 17 dates.
      That could see up to 4,000 fans being allowed into games – and arguably balance out the issues for Newcastle ahead of their trip to Fulham.
      But Prem bosses also recognise that if 10,000 supporters are allowed in, there will be demands for a proper allocation for away fans who are entitled to 10 per cent of seats under League rules.
      Meanwhile, Uefa chiefs were boosted by the Government announcement that restrictions of large gatherings would be ended by June 21 if the Covid plan goes to schedule. 
      That opened the prospect of 90,000 full houses at Wembley for up to five of the seven Euro 2020 games scheduled to be held there, including both semi-finals and the final.
      It is understood Uefa is more cautious and would be thrilled if 45,000 were given the green light to be present for the last three games.

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      Football fans in meltdown as England’s final Euros group stage clash vs Czech Republic is day after UK lockdown ends

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      ENGLAND fans could barely contain their excitement at Boris Johnson’s roadmap out of lockdown.
      The Prime Minister confirmed to the House Of Commons that all social distancing will end on June 21 – with England’s Euro 2020 clash with Czech Republic at Wembley the day after.

      England fans will be delighted that social distancing restrictions are set to end one day before the team’s game against Czech RepublicCredit: Reuters

      All social distancing removed on 21st JuneCzech Republic v England at Wembley 22nd JuneCarnage. 😂
      — Benedict Mason (@BenedictCMason) February 22, 2021

      That could see Wembley packed with fans – providing coronavirus cases haven’t spiked again and all tests have been carried out effectively.
      But for all those who can’t make the game, there are bound to be filled-out pubs and beer gardens around the country.
      And there was an outpouring of joy on social media.
      Three Lions fan Benedict Mason wrote on Twitter: “All social distancing removed on 21st June.

      “Czech Republic v England at Wembley 22nd June. Carnage.”
      Another posted: “On 21st June, all legal limits on life events will be lifted,.
      “22nd June, England play Czech Republic at Wembley Stadium, football’s coming home Boris.”
      While some even called on the PM to make the 23rd a Bank Holiday – so fans can celebrate the first post-lockdown win (hopefully) in style.

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      England fans will even get to cheer on their heroes live at the EurosCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      On 21st June, all legal limits on life events will be lifted, 22nd June, England play Czech Republic at Wembley Stadium, footballs coming home Boris 👏🏽
      — Josh Parker (@pxrker97) February 22, 2021

      A fan wrote: “Tuesday 22nd 2021, England Vs Czech Republic and all the pubs back open.
      “@BorisJohnson might aswell just make the 23rd a national bank holiday now!”
      There will also be fans at England’s clash against Scotland at Wembley on June 18.
      The PM has confirmed that stadiums can return to 25 per cent capacity, or 10,000, which ever is smaller.
      This left both England and Scotland similarly delighted.

      I’ve been trying not to get excited about the roadmap out of lockdown, but the prospect of watching Scotland pump England at Wembley in a tournament in a real life pub instead of in my house on Zoom has me absolutely pishing my breeks
      — Craig 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 (@fors_craig33) February 22, 2021

      While capacity will be strictly limited it is hoped that those numbers can be swiftly increased, with even the prospect of a 90,000 full house for the Euro 2020 Final on July 12.
      The PM confirmed larger events would be piloted, “using enhanced testing, with the ambition of further easing of restrictions”.
      And, if all goes to plan, from June 21, the Government aims “to remove all legal limits on social contact” to “enable large events above the limits of step three” to take place.
      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

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      Carabao Cup final could have fans as EFL target pilot events BEFORE coronavirus lockdown ends

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      THE Carabao Cup final could see fans welcomed to Wembley Stadium with the EFL targeting pilot events before the coronavirus lockdown ends.
      Earlier on Monday, Prime Minster Boris Johnson confirmed turnstiles will be reopened from May 17 after being closed for the second time in December.

      Fans could be welcomed back to Wembley for the Carabao Cup final on April 26, say the EFLCredit: PA:Press Association

      But the EFL are targeting a return for fans before even that and will work with the Government to make it happen.
      Wembley will play host to the Carabao Cup final between Manchester City and Tottenham on April 26.
      An EFL spokesperson said: “We note the Prime Minister’s announcement today in respect of a roadmap for easing national lockdown restrictions and the Government’s criteria for a phased return of fans to sporting events.
      “As has been our approach throughout the pandemic, the EFL wants to see supporters back in our stadia as soon as it is safe to do so.

      “We will continue to work with clubs, DCMS, the SGSA and local authorities to this end.
      “Following a successful fan pilot programme in the autumn, the EFL and member clubs have shown test events for fans can be safely delivered with the appropriate measures in place.
      “With the Carabao Cup final taking place on April 25 and the culmination of the EFL season on May 8/9, we look forward to engaging with the Government about its pilot programme.
      “We will be working to welcome as many fans as possible to the Sky Bet Play-Off Finals which will conclude the 2020-21 season on the Spring Bank Holiday weekend.”

      Prior to the EFL’s statement, the PM had told the House of Commons: “The turnstiles of our sports stadia will once again rotate, subject in all cases to capacity limits depending on the size of the venue.”
      That opens the prospect of supporters being in seats for the seven Euro 2020 games due to be played at Wembley, as well as Wimbledon.
      It would also allow race fans for the Epsom Derby and Royal Ascot in June.
      And supporters will get the chance to watch the England vs India Test series and the Open Championships at Royal St George’s.
      But, initially at least, numbers will be strictly limited.
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      When turnstiles do open, crowds will be restricted to a maximum of 10,000 or 25 per cent of capacity, whichever is the smaller.
      However, it is hoped that those numbers can be swiftly increased, with even the prospect of a 90,000 full house for the Euro 2020 Final on July 12.
      The PM confirmed larger events would be piloted ‘using enhanced testing, with the ambition of further easing of restrictions’.
      And, if all goes to plan, from June 21, the Government aims ‘to remove all legal limits on social contact’ to ‘enable large events above the limits of step three’ to take place. 
      The news is a welcome boost for supporters who have been forced to become stay at home fans for most of the past 11 months since the initial sporting shutdown last March.

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      Unknown Premier League rule change revealed as players and staff forced to be fourth officials due to Covid

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      FANS of Everton and Manchester United both flooded social media after members of their clubs’ backroom teams were spotted on substitution board duty this weekend.
      But in fact those getting excited have been asleep at the wheel since Project Restart – in JUNE.

      Lee Grant was the man to hold the sub board to introduce Juan Mata

      Duncan Ferguson held up the board for a late Everton replacement in the Merseyside derby win at Liverpool.
      With third choice keeper Lee Grant was on the touchline for United during the win over Newcastle.
      Prem chiefs, though, confirmed that the boards have not been handled by the fourth official since the return of action last season.
      While it was always a job for officials in the past, Covid protocols mean there are now TWO substitution boards being used at every game.

      The home side has one, with the away team operating the other, in a safety measure.
      It is also a regulation that all boards are sanitised immediately after matches, along with the corner flags and goalposts.
      Last month Grant revealed life as a third-choice can leave him feeling ‘like a zombie’.
      But he has finally found a way of being involved in the Premier League for United who he has never played for in the league.

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      Duncan Ferguson was on hand to introduce Alex Iwobi to the gameCredit: Sky Sports

      Manchester United fsans found Grant’s new role hilarious

      As Shola Shoretire came on to make his Red Devils debut alongside Juan Mata, Grant was seen holding up the substitutes board.
      That is a coronavirus protocol that has been used on occasion this season.
      And fans were loving it.
      Gaz wrote: “The image of Shoretire coming on for his debut is always going to make me laugh now I’ve spotted Lee Grant.”
      Moll added: “Lee Grant is paid £30,000-a-week for this.”
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