NIFL reveal plans for the introduction of virus tests

THE Northern Ireland Football League have confirmed that Covid-19 tests for Danske Bank Premiership clubs will take place for an initial rolling period of four weeks.

Clubs return to training on Monday and the new testing procedure will be reviewed after three weeks by NIFL.

The tests will be available to clubs and match officials ahead of the next round of fixtures on Saturday, January 23.

The same company that operates testing at the EFL clubs in England will be used in this joint project by NIFL and the Irish FA.

NI Football League Interim Managing Director Steven Mills said: “We are delighted to announce the introduction of testing to reaffirm our commitment to the welfare of our players, coaches and match officials.

“We have considered what other leagues have introduced and we will be using the same company and test as the EFL clubs in England.

“Coupled with the robust protocols the Premiership clubs have successfully implemented to date, we can look forward to the remainder of the campaign with renewed comfort and excitement.”

Irish FA Chief Executive Patrick Nelson added: “Through working collaboratively with NIFL we continue to respond to the pandemic to ensure football in Northern Ireland is supported and protected.”

NORTHERN Ireland winger Gavin Whyte has agreed a loan deal at Grant Mccann’s Hull City.

Cardiff City have allowed the former Crusaders favourite to join the League One club for the remainder of the season.