Brian Caldwell gives his thoughts on Town's positive Covid-19 test results.
Shrewsbury Town Football Club earlier confirmed several members of the Town squad and first team staff tested positive for Covid-19.
In accordance with EFL and Government guidelines, all concerned individuals have now entered into a period of self-isolation.
Brian Caldwell spoke to iFollow to give his thoughts on Town's Emirates FA Cup fixture news and the positive test results within the team.
On the positive results:
"The first thing we need to consider is all the players and staff who have tested positive for Covid. The more medical people we speak to, the more advice we are getting on how this strain is harder to control.
"We got the news about mandatory testing, and the results were quite astronomical if I am honest - we were all concerned. Most of those who are affected aren't showing symptoms but some are.
"Our focus now is the duty of care to our staff, we are making sure everyone is looked after. Everybody is in isolation just now and we have contacted Shropshire Public Health - they have been great with us.
"Our training ground will now be closed for 10 days and Shropshire Public Health supported us with that. It's a difficult situation to manage. We don't want to give exact numbers because it wouldn't be fair on any individuals involved."
On the Southampton fixture:
"We have sent a lot of information over to the FA over the last 48 hours since we got the test results. The first step was the Professional Game Board had to meet to make a decision on the fixture. Although we put statements out about where we were, it was difficult because we couldn't say too much. The Professional Game Board met this morning and decided that the game is off.
"The second stage is they decide what happens regarding if the game is rescheduled or we forfeit. We are all disappointed that the game is off but health comes before anything else. The health and well-being of our players, staff, and everyone at the Club is far more important than a TV fee for a cup match."
On EFL and PFA weekly testing:
"Previously, you would test players and staff who showed symptoms. To have the financial backing from the PFA is fantastic and I do believe the new strain requires this regular testing. Any kind of assistance in trying to minimise the further spread amongst the players is appreciated. Hopefully the regular testing twice a week will do that.
"Our main focus at the moment is making sure that all the players and staff recover fully. We are delivering packages to every single person in isolation because some of the lads are on their own."
