FIFA has offered direct encouragement for footballers to get vaccinated.

The first clear statement of its kind from world football's governing body came as players were flying to countries for men's World Cup qualifiers.

"We encourage Covid-19 vaccinations," FIFA said, "and endorse the World Health Organisation's position: safe, fair, and equitable access is critical in all countries. Players should not receive priority access to vaccines."

Meanwhile, the British government spoke out against players not getting vaccinated, AP reported. Only seven of the 20 Premier League clubs have more than half of their squads fully vaccinated, according to the most recent data.