Player welfare fears for Portadown’s Matthew Tipton

The welfare of his squad will play a greater role in selection issues for Tipton as he attempts to manage the unique circumstances of this current campaign.

Tipton’s Ports finished level with Ballymena United on Saturday following a demanding second fixture back in the aftermath of positive coronavirus tests within the camp.

The Irish League’s delayed return from lockdown has been given the green light under various restrictions including access to changing rooms as clubs adapt to social distancing measures and health protocols.

Tipton fears a correlation between the unprecedented situation and greater number of muscle problems across the game.

“Playing Saturday to Tuesday was my life for 20-plus years across my career but I think this year is more difficult,” said Tipton after Saturday’s 0-0 draw. “The team might change now as it’s definitely hard to play two games in four days at this level.

“We have training planned for tomorrow (Sunday) as it maybe enables players to have some rest then after work on Monday before going to Dungannon Swifts on Tuesday.

“It’s about trying to maximise the time we have and do the best we can.

“People are popping up with more and more injuries.