Town reluctantly advise the FA that we are unable to fulfil our third round Emirates FA Cup fixture with Southampton.
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. The health and safety of all staff members at Shrewsbury Town Football Club remains paramount and the Club continually takes all necessary steps to protect all where possible.
The Club has informed Shropshire Public Health, the EFL, and the FA of the current situation. We reluctantly have had to advise the FA that we are unable to fulfil our third round Emirates FA Cup fixture with Southampton this Saturday following medical advice given to the Club that it would be unsafe to play the match.
No training has taken place since last week and the Club has closed our Sundorne Castle Training Ground for 10 days. This decision and our actions have been supported by Public Health (Shropshire).
Shropshire Council has been working closely with Shrewsbury Town to manage Covid-19 cases at the football club. Rachel Robinson, Shropshire’s Director of Public Health, said: “We have been made aware of positive cases of Covid-19 at Shrewsbury Town Football Club. We are working closely with the Club to help limit any further potential spread. All positive cases, as well as close contacts, are self-isolating for at least 10 days in line with national guidance.
“The Club has acted responsibly and taken all the necessary precautions to limit the spread of the virus, which in this case has required closing the training ground and isolating all close contacts. The Club are also following all the Government’s Elite Sport protocols, which include regularly testing for players and staff.
“We are now at a critical point in our battle against Covid-19. We have seen a sharp increase in cases and our local health services are coming under increasing pressure. That’s why we are urging everyone to follow the measures designed to keep everyone safe – stay at home, limit your contact with people outside your household and support bubble and wash your hands regularly.”
Town would like to place on record our thanks to the relevant sporting bodies and their medical advisors, Southampton Football Club for their understanding, and Public Health (Shropshire) for their support and guidance. We hope that all staff with positive Covid-19 test results make a full and speedy recovery.