New England Revolution defender Alexander Buttner explained, in his second language, a concept that some in this country seem determined not to understand.
Yes, it feels safe for Major League Soccer teams, under the conditions and protocols in place, to return to playing major-league soccer.
“Yeah, because we get tested almost three, four times a week,” he said. “And so I think it’s safe to train, because the results are good. I hope everybody stays safe and healthy.”
The Revs returned to full-squad training Monday after an extended absence resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. That meant being able to use the team’s facilities as well as joining each other on the field. Atlanta United also resumed training Monday. Sporting Kansas City was on the field Sunday.
They are preparing to play in a league tournament in Orlando later in the summer that would comprise a World Cup-style format, with teams divided into group play and the top 16 moving on to an elimination round. CBS Sports reported July 9 as a possible start date.
Teams had been able to do some voluntary individual training starting May 6. Buttner, in his first season with the Revs after coming from three seasons with Jong Vitesse in his native country, the Netherlands, said it’s much better being able to move freely through the Revs facility.
“It feels great. Finally, we can play football with each other again. It was a long time we had to train by ourselves, but finally we are back,” Jong told RevolutionSoccer.net. “We did some small games, some crosses, so for me it was a good training.”
The last time the Revs were on the field together was nearly three full months ago, before MLS suspended operations March 12. Their last full game a 1-1 draw against the Chicago Fire at Gillette Stadium on March 7.
“It’s safe and reassuring that everyone’s been tested and no one tested positive,” rookie defender Henry Kessler told RevolutionSoccer. “That’s really good news. There was a blood test and then the other one was a bit uncomfortable. You have to stick something pretty far up your nose. Those were the tests ,but it’s good to have those done and make sure everyone’s healthy.
