Manchester United first team players and staff test positive for Covid as Preston friendly cancelled
No confirmation of which individuals returned positive tests
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Manchester United have announced that a “small number” of first team players and staff are suspected to have tested positive for Covid-19, leading Saturday’s friendly with Preston North End to be cancelled.
Those in question returned positives after a routine round of lateral flow testing on Thursday and are now isolating while they await the results of PCR tests.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side were due to travel to Deepdale on Saturday to face Preston in their fourth pre-season friendly but that trip has now been called off.
A club statement read: “As a precautionary measure based on Covid protocols, we have taken the difficult decision that we will not now be able to play the friendly match against Preston North End this Saturday.
“We regret the disruption to Preston North End and disappointment caused to fans.
“Any Manchester United supporters who have purchased tickets for the game will be automatically refunded.
“At this stage, we do not expect further disruption around our forthcoming matches, but we will continue to follow Premier League protocols in this regard.”
United drew 2-2 with Premier League newcomers Brentford at Old Trafford on Wednesday night, with Anthony Elanga and Andreas Pereira scoring United’s goals.
Solskjaer is currently without several first team players who were involved in major international tournaments this summer, though the likes of Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford are due to return to training on Monday.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments