Premier League clubs have been accused of failing in their ‘moral responsibility’ to ensure all players have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19.
Several clubs have privately admitted they will not make two jabs mandatory for squads even though fans at nearly all top-flight matches could soon be required to have had both vaccinations.
Others are unwilling to reveal whether players will need to have had two vaccinations in the new season, despite the risks of widespread disruption being underlined this weekend when five Everton players were forced to isolate.
Public health experts have criticised the clubs for not seeking to set an example that would encourage young people to get vaccinated and help Britain’s attempt to return to a semblance of normality.