St Johnstone’s Premiership clash with Aberdeen has been called off in the wake of positive Covid-19 tests returned by two Dons stars.
Pittodrie boss Derek McInnes was set to be without EIGHT first-team players for the game against Callum Davidson’s Saints at McDiarmid Park tomorrow.
But the game – which was due to be shown live on Sky Sports – was axed less than 24 hours after Scottish football’s Joint Response Group (JRG) said it would still go ahead.
The Aberdeen stars who tested positive – along with six stars who have been in close proximity to the duo – are self-isolating.
All eyes have been on the Granite City over the last few days as far as the coronavirus in Scotland is concerned, with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon increasing lockdown restrictions for seven days on Wednesday due to a spike in cases.
Bars and restaurants were ordered to close, there is a five-mile travel limit for leisure activities and people from outside Aberdeen have been encouraged not to travel there.
The Dons stars’ positive tests are said to be linked to a city centre Covid-19 cluster.
Speaking before today’s cancellation, Pittodrie chairman Dave Cormack called the developments “a bitter blow” and vowed to carry out an investigation into what happened.
He said: “After Saturday’s game [against Rangers], with all eyes on Pittodrie, we were once again commended on the stringent processes and measures we had in place. Given the efforts of everyone at the club and our investment in protecting our most valuable assets, this is a bitter blow.
“With two first-team players testing positive for Covid-19, plus six others having to isolate for 14 days, it is also a harsh reminder of the severity and speed of spread of this virus.
“The club will be carrying out a full investigation but, as an immediate first step, we have reinforced the club’s Covid-19 protocols and the governing bodies’ guidance with every player and member of staff and will continue to regularly educate and remind everyone of what is, and what is not, acceptable in the current climate.”
