Lincoln City Women are worried months without training could cause injuries in their historic Women’s FA Cup tie against West Bromwich Albion.
The Imps haven’t played since December 20 because of the national lockdown and won’t be able to train until six days before their game on April 4.
The Government’s lockdown roadmap means outdoor team sports for non-elite clubs aren’t allowed until March 29.
Lee Mitchell, Lincoln City Women’s newly-appointed manager, said: “The fact that we can only get together for two sessions and then we’re into such a competitive game is worrying.
“No matter what programme you give them, it’s not the same as getting together as a team in a game environment.
“We’d have liked a minimum of two weeks preparation, but every manager is in the same boat.”
The FA Cup second round tie will be the joint furthest the Imps have gone in the cup, with the Baggies knocking Lincoln out last season at the same stage.
The Imps will train twice before travelling to the West Midlands in what could be a historic match in a heavily disrupted season.
Sophie Crosby, Lincoln City Women defender, explained that she has maintained her personal fitness in lockdown through running and cycling and the players have now been given exercise regimes to prepare for the FA Cup tie.
Crosby said: “I’m personally not worried because I’ve been getting the right nutrition and training well.
“But I do think that as a whole, clubs will be worried that they don’t want to lose players for the rest of the year.
“A week’s training sessions isn’t enough, no matter what you’ve been doing at home.”
Lincoln City Women’s Division One Midlands has been on hold since Christmas and West Brom, who are 3rd placed in the league above, haven’t played since November 1.
With last season’s Baggies win giving the FA Cup tie some history, the Imps’ manager said his players are “excited”.
Mitchell said: “They’re a league above and are tough opposition, so the players are buzzing and excited to get back.
“Of course you want to win, but there’s no pressure on us for this game so we’ll just enjoy it. These are games you get into the FA Cup to play for.”
Spectators will not be allowed for the game, in line with national restrictions.
If Lincoln City Women beat West Brom, they would face Loughborough Foxes or Derby County in the third round.
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