Children around the country will return to football pitches this evening, following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions around Ireland.

Under-18 teams and younger will be allowed return to non-contact training in pods of 15 or fewer for the first time this year.

Speaking ahead of Monday’s return to training, FAI Chief Executive Jonathan Hill said it was a brilliant day for those getting back to action with their clubs.

“I can only imagine the excitement in homes all around the country today, as boys and girls get back on their local pitches for the first time this year. This is a brilliant day for them, their clubs and coaches.”

FAI President Gerry McAnaney added that the work done in previous months led to today’s opening.

“The clubs deserve a huge amount of praise for their patience in recent months. They will make sure their grounds are Covid compliant this evening, the rest of the week and beyond. It will be a real thrill to see the pitches around the country busy once more.”

You can download the FAI Safer Return to Training Protocol here