Training back at Lanark United with Covid compliance officer

The man in charge of the testing is Craig Martin, kit man, first aider and the club’s newly appointed Covid compliance officer.

“The players and coaches are obliged to report to me before they start training,” Craig told the Carluke and Lanark Gazette.

“The thermometer just checks forehead temperature.

“And if anybody is feverish we really need to stop them from training and advise them to be checked out further as per the SFA guidelines for our level.

“We have set up a local Covid station with hand sanitisation, first aid kit and registers of contact numbers etcetera.

“You have to take this very seriously. I think it has to be done right for everybody’s sake and everybody’s benefit.”

With Lanark United remaining out of action ahead of a potential return to playing matches in late September, continuing safety restrictions mean the players are restricted to non contact training, consisting of running and ballwork drills that involve running, while maintaining social distancing.

There is a limit of four people per coach on the number of players trained, with masks not mandatory as the training is outside.

“No-one tested here so far has had a high temperature,” Craig added.

“The temperatures have been ranging between 36 and 37 degrees on average.

“And that covers everything that is required. I think if it’s over 38 degrees then somebody really has to get checked out.

“Obviously the player would not be allowed to take part in that training session and they would be advised to phone the NHS helpline.”

Although nothing has been confirmed, it is hoped that the new West of Scotland Football League will get up and running in October.

United are in Conference C along with Neilston, Kilsyth Rangers, St Roch’s, Petershill, Ardrossan Winton Rovers, Glasgow Perthshire, Larkhall Thistle, Wishaw, East Kilbride Thistle, Vale of Leven, Yoker Athletic, Vale of Clyde, St Anthony’s and Glasgow University.