Bruno Fernandes among Manchester United stars recalled to UK as Premier League Project Restart gathers pace

Manchester United have told overseas players to return to the UK within seven days as they step up preparations for the season to be resumed.

Certain members of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s squad were allowed to fly back to their home countries when the campaign was suspended due to coronavirus.

But with Premier League clubs determined to see the season completed, United are making moves to ensure players are in condition to get back into action as soon as possible.

And their decision to tell stars like Bruno Fernandes to head back to the UK is a clear indication of the hope of football authorities to restart the season in June.

Fred, Victor Lindelof and Sergio Romero also left the country.

(Manchester United via Getty Images)
Manchester United via Getty Imag

United are aiming to return to their Carrington training base this month after providing players with personal programmes during lockdown.

Coach Kieran McKenna revealed: “All you can do is take your guess of the guidelines and the lockdown protocol. We have tried to work in two-week blocks, so they've had two weeks of work and then the lockdown was extended.

“We've adapted to that because that was something we expected anyway. At the moment, we are working towards, touch wood, the lockdown loosening after the next deadline and being able to return to some sort of training.

"We are working to that schedule at the moment but, if we have to push back again, we have got a plan B and plan C already prepared.”

Ed Woodward has also spoken of the return to football and the growing acceptance it will have to be played behind closed doors.

In Pictures | The Premier League games still be played

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“No decisions have been made yet, but we think it is possible that the initial games, particularly the ones related to finishing or trying to complete this season, will probably have to be played behind closed doors - but that isn’t confirmed yet,” he said.

“We’re not necessarily happy about that. Clearly football requires our fans in the stadium for it to be complete, but public health must come first – and as I said, this is down to the Government.

“It’s important to get back to playing football and complete this season once it’s safe to do so.”

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