Man Utd’s friendly with Preston OFF after coronavirus outbreak in Red Devils camp
MANCHESTER UNITED have confirmed a ‘small number’ of suspected coronavirus cases inside their first-team camp.
As a result, the Red Devils’ friendly against Preston at Deepdale on Saturday has been called off.
Coronavirus testing on Thursday evening revealed the suspected cases in unnamed members of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s camp, which has led to those people self-isolating.
The selection of first-team players and staff were sent home after producing positive results on lateral-flow tests.
They will now take PCR coronavirus tests to determine how long they need to isolate for.
Despite the friendly cancellation, United have stated that they expect no further disruption to their Premier League preparations.
The Red Devils face Leeds in their opening match on August 14, which is just over a fortnight away.
A club statement confirmed: “Maintaining Covid security is a priority for us.
“Following routine testing of the first team training group today, we have identified a small number of suspected positive cases.
“This has led to those people isolating, pending further tests.
“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 and disappointment caused to fans.
“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 Brentford less than 24 hours before the suspected cases were discovered.
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It followed a defeat to Championship side QPR and a victory over Derby in their pre-season friendlies so far, with an August 7 match against Everton also planned.
Meanwhile, Preston were already due to face Wigan on Friday night in what is now likely to be their final friendly before a clash with Hull to open their season in just over a week’s time.
The Deepdale club added: “We would like to apologise to all supporters for any inconvenience caused, however, the Covid security of both clubs is paramount with the 2021/22 Championship season just eight days away.”
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