Premier League players 'banned from spitting as inspectors visit training grounds'
Premier League clubs have been visited by inspectors to make sure players are not spitting, among other health guidelines, during the coronavirus pandemic.
According to the Mirror, players have been told to help limit the spread of Covid-19 by banning spitting, the sharing of water bottles and swapping shirts.
The restriction of spitting has reportedly been met with some push back, with players arguing the act has become second nature during games to clear airways.
Inspectors are able to keep on eye on training with video and GPS technology.
Clubs began contact training last week as top-flight football works towards a return on June 17, starting with Manchester City vs Arsenal and Aston Villa vs Sheffield United.
Fifa's Medical Committee chairman Michel D'Hooghe has previously raised concerns over spitting, telling The Telegraph: "This [spitting] is a common practice in football and it is not very hygienic.
"So when we start football again I think we should have to avoid that at maximum. The question is whether that will be possible. Perhaps they can give a yellow card.
"It is unhygienic and a good way to spread the virus. This is one of the reasons why we have to be very careful before we start again. I am not pessimistic but I am rather sceptical at the moment."
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