Two FA Cup fixtures this weekend have been affected by separate Covid-19 outbreaks.
Derby County look likely to field a youth team in their tie against non-league Chorley, while Southampton’s match against Shrewsbury Town is unlikely to go ahead after fresh positive tests in the Shrews camp.
FA Cup Matches Affected By Covid-19
Youth Team Likely Route for Derby
Derby’s match against Chorley looks as though it is going to go ahead, but plans are being put in place for the Rams’ youth players to represent the club on Saturday.
The entire first-team squad, as well as Wayne Rooney and his backroom team, are in self-isolation after an outbreak of the virus caused Derby to shut their Moor Farm training ground.
Allowing the youth team to play would eliminate the need to forfeit the tie.
The squad and staff will be testing for Coronavirus again on Thursday but the expectation is that none of them will be able to play.
If this is the case, academy director Darren Wassall is likely to take charge of the young Rams.
Southampton v Shrewsbury in Doubt
The tie between Southampton and Shrewsbury is in far more danger of not going ahead.
Shrewsbury confirmed earlier today that a significant number of their players and staff had tested positive for the virus.
The Shrews saw their New Year’s Day derby match against Crewe Alexandra called off because of positive tests and their League One match against table-toppers Lincoln City later this month is also thought to be in doubt.
The Saints could be awarded a walkover if Shrewsbury are unable to field a team. However, the Telegraph report that Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side would be willing to accept a postponement, rather than Shrewsbury forfeiting the competition, if a suitable date can be found.
Main Photo
