Sheffield United put measures in place to deal with more Covid-19 disruption

Sheffield United are taking steps to expand their Covid-19 testing programme to avoid any further disruption to the season if the UK government imposes even stricter restrictions on public life amid fears about a new strain of the respiratory disease.
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Players, coaches and other members of staff who come into regular contact with Chris Wilder’s first team squad, including those working in the club’s media department, are currently being screened every seven days as part of a Premier League wide scheme.

But with teams located in regions now subject to Tier 4 measures introducing bi-weekly procedures, United’s own medical experts are taking steps to ensure a smooth transition at the Steelphalt Academy should the testing schedule there change.

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United are set to visit two high risk areas over the Christmas period, with trips to Burnley and Crystal Palace following Boxing Day’s home game against Everton. Wilder’s side have also been paired with Bristol Rovers in the third round of the FA Cup, with the League One side recently forced to postpone two matches because of a coronavirus outbreak at their training complex. Rovers have now discovered their forthcoming match against Portsmouth will also be rescheduled following a spate of positive tests at Fratton Park. Rovers recently returned to training after being forced to close their stadium.

Rhian Brewster trains at Sheffield United's Steelphalt Academy: Simon Bellis/SportimageRhian Brewster trains at Sheffield United's Steelphalt Academy: Simon Bellis/Sportimage
Rhian Brewster trains at Sheffield United's Steelphalt Academy: Simon Bellis/Sportimage

At the height of the pandemic, it emerged United had introduced a ‘one way’ system inside buildings at their base in Shirecliffe, with players advised to stagger their arrival for work and also when they completed their warm-up programmes.

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