Teversal in no rush to return to training

A number of clubs around the non-league pyramid have returned to light training in recent weeks, or plan to do so by 4th July, as lockdown restrictions continue to be relaxed.

But Cook says he does not see the value in returning just yet - though he would like to get a full six week pre-season campaign under their belts.

“If things were normal we would not be back in pre-season training just yet anyway,” he said.

“While I’m desperate to get everybody back together I don’t think it is worth the risk.

“We need a start date and to work six days back from that. Until you can play friendlies there’s no point.

“All fitness work you can do, you can do individually. It is an individual responsibility and you rely on the lads to do pre-season anyway.

“I can’t see how it is possible until social distancing is relaxed. It is difficult because we have got individuals, myself included, with vulnerable individuals at home who may not be able to train and you can’t train without the numbers.”

But Cook admits he would be happy to play matches behind closed doors if it means getting football back up and running..

“It is an interesting argument and I think we do anything to get the games back on,” he said.

“A lot of clubs at our level don’t rely on gate money, we just break even by the time we’ve paid the ref and floodlights.

“Personally I don’t think the club will be dead against that. When the bar is open and people are allowed in, that might be the time when we make a decision.”

Cook also revealed he has three irons in the fire and expects to retain the majority of last year’s squad.

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