George Baldock reveals what he expects when Sheffield United return to full-contact training amidst coronavirus pandemic

Defender George Baldock is convinced that Sheffield United's players will not hold back in training when full-contact is introduced ahead of a return to Premier League action.
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United are one of a number of clubs who have returned to light training amidst the coronavirus crisis, although movements of players and staff around their Shirecliffe training base are strictly controlled to prevent any contact.

But, with the Premier League keen to restart the season behind closed doors and play all the remaining games, clubs will eventually have to alter those plans - and Baldock believes the Blades will be ready for when that day arrives.

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“It will be like a Saturday game, that’s the honest truth," Baldock said, in an interview with The Times.

"If we’re allowed to tackle each other there will be no holds barred, definitely. If you are on the wrong end of one from Jack O’Connell, you’ll feel it.”

Some of Baldock's fellow Premier League players have voiced their own reservations about restarting the league, but the full-back insists he is "psychologically...100 per cent ready" to return.

“As a footballer, I can’t wait," he added.

"I’m chomping at the bit to get back but we understand we have to listen to the government and the Premier League. It has to be safe for everyone. I am sure they are working hard together to accomplish that.

George Baldock believes the integrity of English football will be damaged if the Premier League season is not played to completion: Alistair Langham/SportimageGeorge Baldock believes the integrity of English football will be damaged if the Premier League season is not played to completion: Alistair Langham/Sportimage
George Baldock believes the integrity of English football will be damaged if the Premier League season is not played to completion: Alistair Langham/Sportimage
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"Once they do, I’m sure we have 25 lads here, 100 per cent ready to play.”

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