Why have England cancelled the friendly?
A member of the Lionesses’ backroom staff returned a positive COVID-19 test.
The FA insisted that they had to prioritise the safety and welfare of all players and staff.
How much of a blow is this for Phil Neville?
Friendlies are the only preparation England have for upcoming tournaments given they’ve already qualified for the rescheduled 2021 Euros as hosts.
From Neville’s point of view, this is a significant blow to his Olympic preparations — should he take charge of Team GB in Tokyo next year — as the majority of players expected to make up that squad are England players still yet to show signs of shaking off their post-World Cup hangover and getting back to form on the international stage.
What are Germany’s rules on positive COVID tests?
The German government states that if an individual tests positive while they are in the country, they must self-isolate for 14 days.
The FA believe they cannot take the risk that this may happen to a player or member of England staff.
What will happen to England’s players?
The players will return to their clubs immediately as the remainder of England Women’s October camp at St. George’s Park has been cancelled.
How did the FA react?
The FA’s chief executive Mark Bullingham said: “This has been a difficult but necessary decision. Nothing is more important than the safety, health and wellbeing of the players and colleagues under our care.
“We are very grateful to the DFB (German FA) for their cooperation and understanding and look forward to the possibility of a future fixture in healthier and safer times.”
The German national team coach, Martina Voss-Tecklenburg, said: “We have to respect the FA’s decision. We are aware that we live in difficult times and that unpredictable things can happen again and again in view of the dynamics of the pandemic.”
(Photo: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
