The Premier League are discussing introducing new restrictions to combat increasing Covid-19 cases across the division after revealing that 16% of players remain unvaccinated.
Last weekend saw six Premier League fixtures postponed as a result of a surge in positive coronavirus cases, with the league recording a record of 90 positive results amongst players and staff in the latest round of testing.
The Guardian has now revealed that the Premier League are considering introducing new measures, including the prospect of unvaccinated players – which currently stands at 16% of the division – travelling to games and eating meals separate from vaccinated teammates.
Unvaccinated people are currently required to undergo a 10-day period of isolation should they come into contact with a person positive for the virus, regardless of whether they subsequently test negative and it is a situation that has increased absent players for recent postponed fixtures.
Discussions this week saw clubs vote in majority to continue the season where safely possible, having seen the idea of a Premier League circuit break suggested.
“It was confirmed at a Premier League club meeting today that while recognising a number of clubs are experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks and challenges, it is the League’s collective intention to continue the current fixture schedule where safely possible,” a Premier League statement read yesterday.
“The health and wellbeing of all concerned remains our priority and the League will continue to monitor and reflect public health guidance, always proceeding with caution.
“A range of issues were discussed at this afternoon’s meeting, including the adaption of the Premier League COVID-19 postponement process in response to the impact of the Omicron variant.
“The League also confirmed to its clubs today that 92 per cent of players and club staff have received one, two or three COVID-19 vaccination doses, with 84 per cent of players on the vaccination journey.
“Players who have had one or two doses are required to wait for the appropriate time period before receiving either their second or booster vaccinations.
“The League continues to work with clubs to encourage vaccination among players and club staff, as well as promoting the Government’s public-health vaccination messaging to clubs and the wider public.
“No specific details as to clubs or individuals will be provided by the League, and player vaccination rates will now be publicly communicated at the end of each month, beginning in January.”
