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Premier League players have brought in a self-imposed ban on using camera phones at their Christmas parties this month.

In the week that footage of Downing Street officials joking about a lockdown festive party was leaked sparking huge controversy, it has emerged that top-flight stars are taking steps to avoid their own PR disaster.

As Covid rates increase, some clubs have decided against organising parties completely due to the ongoing crisis. 

Clubs are reacting to the tightened restrictions introduced in the last fortnight including the Government’s move to Plan B on Wednesday.

But a number of Premier League sides' players had already chosen not to mark Christmas with parties even before the stricter guidelines were brought in.

Watford are among the clubs who did not entertain the idea of arranging any festivities this year with Covid still rife, while it is understood Wolves have shelved plans for a players' Christmas lunch.

Manager Ranieri said: ‘We haven’t had a Christmas party. Never. We stay at home with our family. We have all restricted areas here but you know that Covid comes in every situation.’