Rangers, Motherwell and Hibernian asked to detail coronavirus testing procedures
SFA chief executive Ian Maxwell has already warned failure to adhere to testing procedures could put the start of the new season at risk.
Monday 27 July 2020 09:22, UK
Rangers, Motherwell and Hibernian have all been asked to detail their coronavirus testing protocols after pre-season games were cancelled and delayed this week.
The Scottish Football Association and Scottish Professional Football League's Joint Response Group (JRG) have written to the three Scottish Premiership clubs seeking clarification on the procedures used to keep track on the spread of the virus.
As a result, Scottish Premiership clubs have been ordered to reintroduce twice-weekly testing for the first time since July 8.
Rangers and Motherwell were forced to delay Wednesday night's Ibrox friendly by two hours when results of tests carried out on Monday failed to arrive on time for the scheduled 6pm start.
Both squads came back negative but the JRG is now looking for answers after it emerged several members of Steven Gerrard's first-team had played earlier that day for Rangers B in a bounce game against Dundee United.
Hibs were also forced to cancel Saturday's training-ground clash with Ross County at late notice when their tests results arrived late.
The JRG is keen to ensure Scotland's top flight clubs are following correct guidelines and are seeking an explanation from the three clubs in order to reassure the Scottish Government that rules are not being breached ahead of the Scottish Premiership kick-off on August 1.
SFA chief executive Ian Maxwell has already warned that the failure to adhere to testing procedures could put the start of the new season at risk.
In a letter to clubs, he wrote: "We have been able to negotiate a dispensation for Premiership first-team squads to return however all involved should be under no illusions that breaches of the agreed parameters will lead to the Scottish Government removing our exemption, having a catastrophic impact on our game.
"Please ensure all staff and players are reminded of their responsibilities on an ongoing basis."
Following the confirmed positive test from a member of coaching staff at St Mirren, Neil Doncaster, chief executive of the SPFL, said: "Scottish football is acutely aware of how vital it is that everyone adheres strictly to the various restrictions and testing regimes which are designed to protect our game.
"There can be no complacency, but we are heartened by the rigorous way that clubs, players and officials have responded to Covid-19 since March.
"With such regular testing being carried out by SPFL clubs, it is inevitable that several players or coaching staff will have tested positive. This has happened, as it has also happened in leagues around the world.
"What is vital is that clubs manage those very few confirmed positive tests such that the virus does not spread. So far, the rigorous work that our clubs have carried out has ensured that this is the case.
"We continue to work with the health authorities and the Scottish government and are looking forward with confidence to the resumption of matches next weekend."
