It should put an end to games being called off hours before kick-off
The English Football League (EFL) have opted to scrap game-day Covid-19 testing in an attempt to prevent last-minute postponements of fixtures.
A number of lower league matches have been cancelled in recent weeks with a host of clubs suffering from the recent surge in Covid cases.
Just three Championship games, four League One games and two League Two matches went ahead on Wednesday (29 December) after the majority of games were postponed, with a staggering 82 fixtures in the EFL being postponed due to positive Covid cases so far this season.
As per The Athletic, it is thought that the previous requirement for matchday testing on the morning of a game has been removed for players – except for people who have symptoms of Covid-19.
The decision to remove the protocol has been made in concurrence with the EFL’s medical advisors, as well as doctors at clubs across the divisions.
However, players will continue to take daily tests in an attempt to stop the virus from spreading, just not on the day of a match.
An EFL Spokesperson said: “Over the past week, it has become clear that the requirement for matchday testing has caused significant concern and uncertainty at Clubs as well as seriously affecting the supporters of those teams.
“As a result, the League revisited the matter with its Medical Advisors and after careful consideration, which included dialogue with a significant number of Club Doctors, it was determined that the requirement for matchday testing would be removed, except for those individuals who display COVID symptoms.
“Daily testing will continue on non-matchdays with Clubs following the updated red protocols to mitigate against the transmission of COVID as we collectively look to navigate our way through these challenging and unprecedented times.”
On Thursday (December 30), it was announced that Swansea City’s home tie against Fulham had been postponed due to a Covid outbreak at the Welsh side.
The Swans haven’t played since they suffered a 4-1 defeat against Nottingham Forest on December 11.
Related links:
- AFC Wimbledon ask EFL for clarification around postponed games
- EFL clubs to implement ‘enhanced red protocols’ as Covid cases soar
- The 10 best away days in the Premier League and EFL
