Chelsea face Covid-19 scare as pre-season friendly is called off

Pre-season friendly vs Drogedha United called off after Covid-19 scare in Chelsea squad

According to a report by The Evening Standard, Chelsea have isolated an individual within their squad after a ‘possible positive’ case of Covid-19.

The Blues were scheduled to take on Irish side Drogheda United in a pre-season friendly on Thursday night. However, the game was called off because of a possible Covid case within Chelsea’s team.

While the individual is isolated from the squad, no names have been provided. The news was confirmed by a Chelsea spokesperson, who spoke after the pre-season friendly was called off.

Thomas Tuchel added a training session instead of the pre-season friendly against Drogheda United after a Covid-19 scare within the Chelsea squad.
Thomas Tuchel added a training session instead of the pre-season friendly against Drogheda United after a Covid-19 scare within the Chelsea squad. (imago Images)

“Earlier today, we had a possible positive Covid case which we are investigating. The individual has been isolated from the rest of the group. We also decided, as a precaution, to cancel tonight’s behind closed doors game against Drogheda.”

Chelsea brace themselves for a busy August

Thomas Tuchel is overseeing the Blues’ training camp in Ireland and inserted an added training session on Thursday instead of the pre-season friendly. The Blues are expected to return from Éire later this week as they prepare for the games ahead. (h/t The Evening Standard)

The Blues are scheduled to take on Bournemouth next week on Tuesday before taking on London rivals, Arsenal and Chelsea, before getting their season underway.

Chelsea take on Villarreal in the UEFA Super Cup next month.
Chelsea take on Villarreal in the UEFA Super Cup next month. (imago Images)

Chelsea have the chance of landing a European trophy on 11th August when they take on Villarreal in the UEFA Super Cup. Their Premier League season gets underway three days later against Crystal Palace at home.

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As for the possible Covid case within the squad, the club has seemingly acted well to ensure the safety of other members. Hopefully, it’s a false positive and the Blues can resume their pre-season proceedings without hiccups.