Middlesbrough midfielder delivers verdict on football's possible return as talks continue

All football has been suspended since March due to the coronavirus pandemic but there are moves towards a return to action from June, with the Premier League and EFL in constant dialogue with the clubs, Government and medical professionals on how and when it is safe to return.

Middlesbrough midfielder Clayton – whose own father successfully won his fight with the deadly virus – has been speaking about a possible return to action.

Clayton, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, said: "Ultimately I think it will end up with the players making the decision whether they feel right to do it or not.

"It's a real tough one. There's nobody who wants to be out on the pitch more than me - I've missed it like you wouldn't believe.

“It's what we have done since we were kids.

"I don't think the fear in football is the players contracting it ourselves, although it could still have damaging effects.

“It's more if I go to work and bring it back to my baby daughter or my dad, that's the worry I'd have."

Clayton’s father Steve spent 51 days in intensive care with Covid-19 before he eventually left intensive care earlier this week, Clayton sharing the video on his social media.

Clayton added: "There were days where you thought you were going to get the worst news. Somehow he managed to stick in there and the doctors and nurses never gave up on him.”