Derby County is now able to provide an update in relation to Saturday’s Emirates FA Cup Third Round tie at Chorley (12:15pm kick-off).
The club confirmed earlier this week that several first-team staff members and players had tested positive for COVID-19 and as a result, in accordance with Derby County and EFL COVID-19 protocol, the club’s Moor Farm training ground was closed with immediate effect.
The club has been in dialogue with the Football Association since Monday evening to discuss potential ways forward for this weekend’s FA Cup tie.
Those that have tested positive for COVID-19, and those that have been in close contact with those individuals, must self-isolate for a period of time.
As the first-team coaching staff, backroom team and players are currently self-isolating, staff and players at Saturday’s match will be predominantly made up from the club’s Under-23 and Under-18 set-ups.
They have been, and will continue to, train at venues that fall in line with health and safety protocols.
The side will be led on the day by Senior Professional Development Phase Coach Pat Lyons and Professional Development Phase Coach Gary Bowyer.
All individuals scheduled to attend the fixture at Chorley, in line with Football Association rules, will be tested for COVID-19 on Thursday.
The club will provide a further update should it be required.