Cheltenham-Grimsby the latest EFL match to be postponed due to coronavirus

Cheltenham’s League Two match at home to Grimsby on Saturday is the latest to be postponed due to coronavirus.

Grimsby have told the English Football League that they are unable to safely fulfil the fixture as a player has tested positive for Covid-19.

Leyton Orient’s trip to Walsall had already been postponed due to a number positive cases within the O’s squad, which also forced their Carabao Cup tie with Tottenham to be called off.

The EFL said: “This weekend’s Sky Bet League Two fixture between Cheltenham Town and Grimsby Town has been suspended and will not take place on Saturday as scheduled.

“Due to a positive case of Covid-19 being identified within the Grimsby Town squad it has resulted in other players and staff being required to self-isolate in line with EFL and Government guidance.

“As a result, the club has advised the EFL it considers it is unable to safely fulfil this weekend’s fixture.

“The circumstances surrounding the postponement will now be the subject of an investigation in accordance with EFL regulations.

“A revised date for the rearranged fixture will be confirmed in due course.”

The EFL is reviewing it’s testing policy, with weekly testing currently not mandatory for its clubs.

Rochdale chief executive David Bottomley is among those calling for a change to that stance in line with Premier League clubs, who are tested once a week.

“Weekly testing has to happen,” he said. “It’s a very expensive procedure, because you’re looking at that adding another £15,000 a month to a normal everyday operation.

“But I think for the continuation of football, behind closed doors even, players and associated staff have to be tested, no question.”

Cheltenham said: “Everyone at Cheltenham Town wishes the player involved a speedy recovery and we look forward to welcoming the Mariners later on in the season.”

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