Rotherham United's Boxing Day clash with Middlesbrough is OFF after further Covid-19 outbreak

The Millers squad and staff were all tested in the wake of one of their players going down with the virus last week, which caused the short-notice postponement of Saturday's clash with Derby.

The results have shown a “number” of further positive cases within the group and the Millers have subsequently told the EFL and Middlesbrough that they will be unable to fulfil the fixture.

The fate of further games against Barnsley and Cardiff remain in the balance as the club continue discussions with the EFL.

A club statement read: “Following a number of further positive cases of Covid-19 confirmed last night within the Rotherham United first team squad, we have reluctantly – but with the safety of our players and staff at the forefront of our minds – informed the EFL and our opponents, Middlesbrough, that we will be unable fulfil our Boxing Day fixture.

“Paul Warne’s side were set to face Boro at The Riverside on Saturday 26 December 2020, but following an increased series of testing throughout the early stages of this week, brought about by the postponement of last weekend’s fixture against Derby County, the club have, following consultation with the EFL doctors, been left with no choice but to inform the EFL of our decision to rearrange the game against Middlesbrough.

“The club will continue to monitor the severity at which the virus has spread - alongside the health and well-being of our first team squad and those connected to them - whilst remaining in contact with our upcoming opponents and the EFL on the matter.

“We hope to make a decision on future fixtures later today as we continue discussions with the EFL, with whom we will work closely, to ensure the safety of everyone connected with the football club at the forefront of our minds.”