Closure of Covid-testing facility a factor in Championship match being called off

Bristol City have announced their Championship match at Brentford on Saturday has been postponed, with the Bristol club arguing the bank holiday closure of a testing facility meant it had not been possible to arrange the testing of the entire squad and backroom staff in time for the match.

In a statement on their website, the Robins said coronavirus symptoms had become evident within their squad on New Year’s Day: “Following discussions with Brentford and the English Football League the decision has been taken to postpone the game for the safety of players and staff of both clubs. A new date for the fixture will be announced in due course.”

The EFL said: “Circumstances surrounding the postponement will not be subject to an investigation.”

Shortly after the news about the Brentford-Bristol City game, Luton announced their home match against QPR on Saturday had also been postponed.

A Luton statement read: “Positive Covid test results have recently been returned by some of the club’s senior players, football staff and immediate members of family, meaning other players and staff who have come into close contact must also isolate.

“We are awaiting further testing which unfortunately cannot be completed by official EFL procedures before tomorrow’s 3pm kick-off, so the league has agreed to postpone the fixture based on our own recommendation and the league’s medical advice. The game will be rearranged to be played as soon as possible, details of which will be communicated to supporters in due course.”

The postponements came after updated coronavirus protocols were emailed to all clubs by the EFL.

Players must arrive for training sessions in their kit, while indoor facilities including changing rooms and can