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Fri, Mar

Premier League Edges Towards Return As Arsenal Resumes Training

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The Premier League is seeking a return to action in June as talks with broadcast partners resumes, meanwhile, London club, Arsenal will allow their players to return to training this week.

The last time a ball was kicked in the EPL was six (6) weeks ago due to the outbreak of COVID-19, however, there have been debates and speculations as to when footballing action will resume. The possibilities of a June resumption in been processed after EPL stakeholders met with UK rights holders about how best to broadcast the season’s remaining fixtures as the campaign edges closer to a return behind closed doors.

The number of remaining fixtures stands at 92 and 47 are already set to be aired between Sky Sports and BT Sport under existing contracts, while discussion over broadcasting rights for the remaining 45 fixtures is been discussed between BBC and Amazon.

On the other hand, the first EPL team to return to training, Arsenal will grant its players access to training facilities but on a strict rotational basis that will see them uphold social distancing measures.

"Players will be permitted access to our London Colney training grounds next week," said a club spokesperson.

"Access will be limited, carefully managed and social distancing will be maintained at all times.

"All Colney buildings remain closed. Players will travel alone, do their individual workout and return home."

This week saw Arsenal become the first Premier League club to agree on a coronavirus pay cut with their players as manager Mikel Arteta and his stars slashed their wages by 12.5%.

There are reports Arsenal, whose yearly wage bill is around £230 million ($286 million), will give players their money back in the event that they bridge an eight-point gap and qualify for the Champions League when football restarts.

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