England Women's Clash With Germany Cancelled After Positive COVID-19 Test
The Lionesses' clash with Germany has been cancelled after a member of England's backroom staff tested positive for COVID-19.
As a result, the remainder of the England women's October training camp at St. George's Park has also been cancelled, with the players instead returning to their respective club sides.
The Lionesses were due to face the Germany in Wiesbaden, which would have been their first fixture since the SheBelieves Cup in March.
Protocol in Germany states that any individual who tests positive for COVID-19 while in the country must enter self-isolation for 14 days, with the fear being that a player or member of the England staff would be forced to partake in quarantine while in the country.
The decision to cancel the trip has been described as 'difficult', with 'consequent concern for the safety and welfare of all players and staff' being at the forefront of the FA's thinking.
FA CEO Mark Bullingham said in a statement released on the official FA website: "This has been a difficult but necessary decision. Nothing is more important than the safety, health and wellbeing of the players and colleagues under our care.
“We are very grateful to the DFB for their cooperation and understanding and look forward to the possibility of a future fixture in healthier and safer times.”
England head coach Phil Neville added: “While we all wanted to play Tuesday’s game, this was absolutely the right course of action. I thank Germany’s staff for their understanding and our FA colleagues for their support.
“I know the fans were hoping to see us play again but I am sure they will understand the decision. We have still had a good week of training and are looking forward to getting together next month before our match against Norway in Sheffield.”
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