Slavia Prague begin training after Czech government gives clearance - in pictures

First step taken towards reopening league by first week of June

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Slavia Prague started training on Monday after the Czech government allowed athletes to practice outdoors, albeit in small groups.

This has raised hopes, albeit minuscule, of professional football returning by first week of June, even if behind closed doors.

The Czech Republic has allowed stores and restaurants to reopen gradually over the next two months to revive the economy. The plan is to reopen theatres and other cultural and sporting venues for up to 50 people on June 8.

"If all goes well, then I think it realistic to have standard matches played as of June 8, with some technical background... I think matches without spectators could be played," Health Minister Adam Vojtech had said earlier.

The League Football Association, which manages the two top-tier competitions, is seeking to complete the season.

With six matches remaining of the regular season, holders Slavia Prague have an eight-point lead over Viktoria Plzen.

"Nothing has changed for us at the moment. We will continue to do the maximum so that this season can be completed on the pitch," LFA chairman Dusan Svoboda said in a statement.