MLS gives clubs green light to start full team training

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Major League Soccer teams can now ramp up the intensity at training ahead of a potential tournament in Florida next month.

Clubs were given the green light Thursday to begin full team training for the first time since the season was suspended March 12 due to the coronavirus, the league announced.

MLS stated clubs must "have their plans approved by the club's medical staff and a local infectious disease expert," before they can conduct practice sessions without restrictions.

"A strict schedule of COVID-19 testing will also be required," the league said. "Full team training will be mandatory for all players and teams as part of the next step in a return to play."

Players and staff will be required to complete two COVID-19 tests 24 hours apart, 72 hours ahead of the start of training. Players, coaches, and some staff will then be tested every other day after full team training begins.

Anyone who tests positive will enter a period of isolation before being tested again at least a day later to ensure accuracy. Tests would also be administered to those who had come into close contact with the individual.

On Wednesday, MLS and its players' association avoided a potential lockout with the ratification of a new collective bargaining agreement. It paves the way for reported plans to resume the season with a tournament in Orlando in July.