Dundee United suspend training after player positive Covid test

Dundee United have cancelled training after one of their players tested positive for Covid-19.

All coaching staff and players have now undergone PCR tests to determine if the virus has spread within the squad.

STV understands that the case is unrelated to the squad’s recent Christmas night out and the club are confident that the squad will be able to return to training within the next 24 hours.

Saturday’s Premiership match against Rangers at Ibrox is not thought to be in doubt at this stage.

The positive test comes as Scottish football works to minimise all risk as the omicron variant of the virus spreads in the UK.

The Scottish Football Association and Scottish Professional Response Group’s Joint Response Group issued an update to clubs on Monday, clarifying rules on travel for clubs, stating that only those seated within a certain proximity to a passenger who tests positive will be classed as a close contact. They emphasised that 2m social distancing should be in place at other times.

The guidance read: “Contrary to initial advice, it has been confirmed that it is NOT the case that all passengers on board a plane or bus will be identified as close contacts.

“The revised guidance received from Scottish Government is as follows.

“Close contact definition and assessment process remain as they are across all areas, with the ‘two row’ criteria currently in place continuing on plane/bus travel and ‘2m’ assessment used for changing areas, dining arrangements etc.”

Clubs have also been encouraged to ensure all double-vaccinated players and staff receive their booster jag at the earliest opportunity.