RYAN JACK believes players will need at least two weeks of a head start before getting back into competitive action. 

The coronavirus crisis has put Scottish football into shutdown mode and with uncertainty surrounding the length of lockdown it remains to be seen when the season will be able to get back underway.

Like the rest of the players in the SPFL, Scotland international Jack is currently in isolation at home on a strict diet and fitness regime set by the club.

But the 28-year-old insists home training is not the same as being out on the pitch.

Speaking on Clyde 1 Superscoreboard, he said: “Going into a normal season our pre-seasons have been short because we have had European stuff and the fact we’re going straight back into competitive action.

“You don’t get that long then but if you come back playing straight away the risk is of picking up injuries.

“Ultimately if you’ve been training at home an hour a day you’ll lose that match sharpness and you could pick up something.

“For me it’s got to me a minimum two weeks of training to try to get the sharpness back.

“Right now you’ve just got to deal with it as you go along.

"Mentally you go from training with 20 boys playing football every day to training yourself.

“You’ve got to stay fit because at some point we could get a call or text to say that’s us starting back

“As footballers you have to be ready for when the call comes. The guys at Rangers are very good though.

“It’s an easy fitness programme that’s not too complicated so when we train it’s pretty straightforward.”

The Light Blues star also gave an insight into life in the Jack household. He admits he’s enjoying spending time with his family during the lockdown.

He added: “It’s about taking this time as a break, having a step back to reflect and having a wee breather.

“You’re sitting at home with your families which is the most important thing.

“I’ve got a five-year-old in primary one so I’m right in the mix of that.

"It’s obviously not expected and you just try to make the best of the situation.

“I’m home spending time with the family but you’re missing football and want to be out there every week playing games.

“But sometimes football is secondary in tough times like this. The days are long and you’re in the house day and night.

“But being disciplined is part of being a footballer and you have to accept that."