Rotherham United await news on possibility of COVID-19 outbreak after Derby County match is postponed

Rotherham will find out on Monday if there is a coronavirus outbreak in their squad.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

The Millers' Championship game with Derby on Saturday was called off less than 90 minutes before scheduled kick-off after it emerged one of their squad had tested positive for the virus.

The entire squad and staff, some of which were showing symptoms, was then tested on Saturday, with the results expected back today.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

They have been in isolation since the test to the unnamed player came back and the results could influence whether the Millers' Christmas games go ahead.

Rotherham United manager Paul WarneRotherham United manager Paul Warne
Rotherham United manager Paul Warne

The EFL allowed the game to be called off, at Rotherham's request, but the governing body will now investigate the circumstances behind the postponement.

The Millers said in a statement: “Rotherham United can confirm that this afternoon’s Sky Bet Championship fixture against Derby County has been postponed following a positive test of Covid-19 for a member of Paul Warne’s squad, with further players within the first team bubble showing symptoms of the virus at present.

“Following conversations with the EFL and the subsequent medical advice provided by them and that of our own club doctors, the club have taken the decision to request a postponement to the fixture which has been approved by the EFL.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“The game which was set to take place at AESSEAL New York Stadium on Saturday 19th December 2020 will now be rearranged.

“The EFL have sanctioned the postponement of the fixture as a matter of player safety, which of course remains paramount to both ourselves and Derby County.”

The EFL added in a statement: “This afternoon’s Sky Bet League Championship fixture between Rotherham United and Derby County has been postponed due to an outbreak of Covid-19, with players and first-team staff required to self-isolate in line with EFL and Government guidance.

“The club has therefore informed the EFL it is unable to fulfil this afternoon’s fixture and the circumstances surrounding the postponement will now be the subject of an investigation in accordance with EFL Regulations.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“A revised date for the rearranged fixture will be confirmed in due course.”

Both sets of squads had arrived at the AESSEAL New York Stadium expecting the game to go ahead.

The Millers are scheduled to visit Middlesbrough, managed by former boss Neil Warnock, on Boxing Day.