GERMANY’S World Cup qualifier against Iceland WILL go ahead after one of their players tested positive for Covid-19, according to reports.
Borussia Monchengladbach star Jonas Hofmann, 28, returned a positive sample leaving the rest of the German squad confined to their rooms – on the morning of their clash with the Icelandics.
Urgent talks were held between frantic German FA officials earlier today in a desperate attempt to make sure the Group J clash in Duisberg would go ahead as planned.
And the game has now been given the green light, according to Bild.
The match is due to kick-off at 7:45pm tonight UK time at the MSV Arena – home to third tier side MSV Duisberg.
Players were forced to self-isolate and a team meeting scheduled for this morning was cancelled in an attempt to reduce any risk of further transmission.
As well as Hofmann, RB Leipzig star Marcel Halstenberg has also been forced to isolate as he came into contact with the infected midfielder.
At noon Thursday, German Football spokesperson Jens Gittner said the game would ‘definitely take place according to the current status’.
Former Germany striker and now DFB big-wig Oliver Bierhoff, 52, said: “This news is of course bitter so shortly before the game – for the coach and the entire team.
“But we are in good spirits that it will stay with this single case, as we have carried out all hygiene measures with great discipline so far. Of course, we will implement all the requirements of the authorities. “
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A German FA statement on Thursday read: “The PCR testing of players and staff in the national team’s quarters on Wednesday gave a positive test result on Thursday morning.
“In close cooperation with the Düsseldorf health department, the national player who tested positive and is currently symptom-free was immediately isolated.”
Fifa protocols state the game can take place if a team has 13 available players.
Former England Under-21 star Jamal Musiala is one of the players affected by the news having been called up to the senior German side for the first time.
The 18-year-old has enjoyed a rapid rise at Bayern Munich – sparking a battle between the Three Lions and Die Mannschaft for his international allegiance.
Despite playing for the Young Lions as recently as November, he chose to play for Germany’s senior team after boss Joachim Low knocked on his door to beg him to pick the Germans.
The starlet was born in Stuttgart but moved to London as a child, where he played for Chelsea’s academy.
Germany are in qualifying Group J alongside Romania, North Macedonia, Armenia and Lichtenstein.
Low is set to kick off his last World Cup qualifying campaign with the national team.
The long serving manager of 15 years will stand down after this summer’s Euros.
Despite rumours linking Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp with the upcoming vacancy, the Reds manager ruled himself out of the running.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
