'Much more work to be done' as Saints target return to training

On Wednesday afternoon, the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) confirmed that elite sports clubs in England can return to training.

The announcement enables Saints to continue to develop plans for the playing squad's return to individual training with social distancing in place within their facilities at the Gardens – and in turn, take the first steps towards a resumption of the Gallagher Premiership.

But Darbon has warned that it will not be a rapid process.

“We have done a huge amount of work in recent weeks to lay the foundations for our players and staff to make a safe return to training, and this announcement allows us to continue to press forward,” said Darbon said.

“However, it’s important to state that there is still much more work to be done before any training can resume here at Franklin’s Gardens.

“The welfare of the playing group, our rugby and operations staff and their families has to be our number one priority.”

Darren Childs, CEO at Premiership Rugby, added: “With the support of all stakeholders, our job is now to find a safe way for one of our greatest national sports to thrive.

“Our priority is the health and safety of supporters, players, management, staff and the wider community, so our season will resume only when it is safe to do so.

“I’d like to thank the RFU, RPA and Professional Game Board, for their high levels of collaboration throughout the crisis.”