HULL confirmed they were ‘comfortable’ for their Carabao Cup game against West Ham to go ahead.
The Hammers revealed THREE positive tests for Covid-19 had been returned at the club ahead of tonight’s match.
Hull confirmed they had no problem taking the field against Covid-hit West HamCredit: PA:Press Association
Boss David Moyes and first-team stars Issa Diop and Josh Cullen all contracted the virus with results returned less than an hour BEFORE kick-off.
Hull’s statement read: “We are satisfied that West Ham followed all guidelines and protocols upon receiving the positive results and, after consulting with the EFL, were comfortable with the game going ahead.
“The Club will continue to stringently monitor the wellbeing of our players and staff as per Public Health England and EFL guidelines – as we have done since they were put in place – and we wish the West Ham manager and players the very best.”
Despite the disruptive late news, Moyes’ men thumped their opponents 5-1 at the London Stadium in his absence to secure their progression into the fourth round.
None of the trio are showing symptoms but Moyes, 57, Diop, 23, and Cullen, 24, all immediately went home to self-isolate after their tests at the London Stadium.
Hull City’s squad were offered the chance to be tested – but the Tigers declined.
There was initially confusion ahead of kick-off when Diop and Cullen – due to start – were replaced in the starting line-up by Harrison Ashby and Jack Wilshere.
A West Ham statement read: “The Club’s medical team were informed of the test results as the team were at London Stadium preparing for this evening’s Carabao Cup third round tie against Hull City.
David Moyes tested positive for Covid-19Credit: AFP or licensors
“The manager and both players immediately left the stadium and have returned home.
“All three, who are asymptomatic, will now follow Public Health England and Premier League guidelines and protocols.
“Everyone at West Ham United send their best wishes to David, Issa and Josh.
“The Club’s measures and protocols around COVID-19 remain stringent.
“This included offering to test the Hull City team ahead of tonight’s fixture – an offer which they opted not to accept.”
Issa Diop was ruled out after a positive testCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Josh Cullen was one of three who tested positive before the Carabao Cup game against HullCredit: Getty Images – Getty
The EFL issued a statement of their own in relation to the positive tests.
It read: “The League was made aware of a number of positive test results at West Ham United shortly before tonight’s Carabao Cup tie against Hull City.
“That guidance permitted the match to go ahead as planned but not before the two Clubs medical teams, in conjunction with the EFL’s medical advisors, agreed all relevant protocols had been followed and both teams were comfortable in continuing.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
