A statement was released today, saying: ‘The Football Association of Ireland can confirm Ireland defender Matt Doherty and forward James McClean have tested positive for Covid-19′. Since the two players have isolated themselves from the rest of the group who have all since tested negative. Both players started in Ireland’s 1-0 defeat in Cardiff on Sunday and have since the result been isolated from the group which flew back to Dublin this morning.”
Republic of Ireland Confirm Positive COVID-19 Tests
Both Tottenham and Stoke City Dealt Blows Following Republic of Ireland News
This comes as a huge blow for Ireland who have to avoid defeat at home to Bulgaria on Wednesday to avoid relegation from League B in the Uefa Nations League. This hasn’t been the smoothest of international breaks for Ireland boss Stephen Kenny. The two games so far have seen them suffer defeat to both England and Wales. Now, they are being dealt with a further headache. With a number of players missing such as Seamus Coleman and John Egan through injury and Jeff Hendrick and Jayson Molumby as a result of suspension, these two successions create additional problems for the Irish.
Trouble for Tottenham
With the 14-day quarantine period the pair will have to endure, it will lead to them missing out on club football too. Tottenham will be without Doherty for two massive league games. They face Manchester City at home this weekend before a trip to Stamford Bridge the following week. The isolation period may come to an end before the 29th November when they face Chelsea but the full-back will have spent a significant time away from the squad which is likely to keep him out of the side in such a big clash. There is also a Europa League tie at home to Ludogorets Tottenham will be without him for.
Tottenham have been on a great spell of form and will be hit hard by this news. Doherty was slowly emerging as a key man after making six league starts this season. Since arriving from Wolves in the summer he has become a key part of Mourinho’s plans. Spurs will have to go three games without him which will likely see Serge Aurier replace him in the side.
Frustration for Stoke
Stoke beat league leaders Reading 3-0 before the International Break away from home. They will now be without McClean for games at home to Huddersfield and Norwich at the least. The forward man has started all five of the Potters’ last league games scoring two goals. This is a huge blow for the side who see themselves just a point outside of the playoff spaces after 11 games.
A Common Theme?
There have been several positive results over the course of the international break. It has lead to many questioning the necessity of such breaks with the current climate. It is something that with an already hectic schedule due to the season starting late, is causing more damage than good. A number of injuries and positive COVID-19 tests is damaging club football at an alarming rate.
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