Tottenham’s match at Leyton Orient in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday has been called off just hours prior to kick off due to positive coronavirus tests at the League Two club.
« Tonight’s Carabao Cup match between Leyton Orient and Tottenham Hotspur is not taking place this evening as scheduled, » an English Football League statement read.
« Discussions are ongoing between the relevant stakeholders in regards to the implications of the decision not to play tonight’s game and a further update will be provided in due course.
« Leyton Orient, the EFL and the relevant authorities are conducting a thorough review of the club’s Covid-19 secure procedures with the view to reopening the stadium and training ground as soon as possible. »
The EFL did not announce a decision on the outcome of the match, with speculation growing that Tottenham could be awarded a win by forfeit.
Tottenham paid for Leyton Orient’s coronavirus testing after the O’s drew 2-2 against Mansfield in League Two action on Saturday.
Spurs were looking for assurances before making the trip to Brisbane Road for the clash, with EFL clubs not required to be tested weekly like Premier League sides.
« Following our game on Saturday 19th September, Covid-19 testing was conducted on all of our first team playing squad, » the statement read.
« Today (Monday 21st) we received formal confirmation which shows that a number of our first-team squad have tested positive for Covid-19.
« We have informed the EFL and Tottenham Hotspur and will make a further announcement regarding Tuesday’s match shortly.
« We have also informed Mansfield Town, Plymouth Argyle and Oldham Athletic, our three most recent opponents, prior to the public release of this information.
« Leyton Orient’s priority is the health and well-being of its players and staff. Those who have tested positive will now strictly follow government self-isolation guidelines. »
Following the cancellation of Tuesday’s match, Tottenham face a trip to North Macedonia on Thursday for a Europa League match against Shkendija.
Jose Mourinho’s squad then has another quick turnaround as they return to north London to host Newcastle in the Premier League on Sunday.
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