JAMAICA’S Leon “Chippy” Bailey is fit and raring to go as German football authorities propose a May 9, restart of the Bundesliga, albeit to empty stadiums.

Germany is slowly easing nation-wide COVID-19 restrictions and the resumption of the football league, which was halted on March 13, would make the Bundesliga the first top-flight European league to resume action.

The 22-year-old Bailey, who has been playing for Bayer Leverkusen since 2017, said in a Jamaica Observer exclusive that although he is eager to play, he remains cautious.

“It feels good. It’s just that we are going to be playing without fans,” said Bailey.

The German Government has recently decided that events with crowds will be banned at least until October 24. That order rules out the Bundesliga being played in front of spectators until the scheduled start of next season.

According to the World Health Organization, Germany has over 150,000 coronavirus cases with approximately 5,577 deaths and a high 106,800 recovery cases. But the 18 clubs have been back in training for three weeks, albeit in small groups with social distancing observed even on the pitch.

“During the shutdown, we were doing like programmes we got from the club to stay fit,” said Bailey, who has scored 19 times from 81 appearances for his club.

“It feels good to know that Germany is dealing with the situation better than most countries,” said Bailey.

“Things are now open again, but we still have to be cautious. Of course, I was worried at some point, but got over it eventually,” he added.

Meanwhile, Bailey’s agent, mentor and adopted father Craig Butler, said the wily winger will stay put at Leverkusen for now despite a number of offers from English clubs, including a renewed bid from Chelsea.

“Leon has often been linked with transfers… there is interest from clubs, but we will sit with Leverkusen at the right time and ensure we make the right decision for Leon’s future,” said Butler.

“He is a top talent and top talents must take the steps, but at the right time and under the correct conditions. Right now we want to finish the season strong and be ready for whatever comes next,” he pointed out.

“Leverkusen is a good club and a lot has been accomplished here for Chippy. We will see what the future holds. However, now COVID-19 and the world’s recovery from it, is key,” said Butler.