Peterborough United co-owner reveals his frustration and anger over failed Covid-19 tests for key players

Peterborough United co-owner Darragh MacAnthony has spoken of his frustration at losing two players from the opening game of the League One season because of failed coronavirus tests.
Reece Brown.Reece Brown.
Reece Brown.

On-loan midfielder Reece Brown and star striker Siriki Dembele both missed defeat at Accrington Stanley last Saturday.

MacAnthony, during the latest episode of his popular ‘Hard Truth’ podcast, said: “It’s very frustrating as we had worked so hard to get everything right in terms of a protective bubble and regular testing.

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“I’m angry. The club was hurt by how last season ended and we have to be on a mission to put that right and if that means staying in a bubble to make sure we don’t catch the virus then that’s what we should do.

Siriki Dembele.Siriki Dembele.
Siriki Dembele.

“We did everything right as we wanted to start the season strongly so to lose two players from the first team three days before the first game was very irritating. We can’t have our first selection of the season affected by a virus we know how to avoid.

“Do you think there was ever a chance of Cristiano Ronaldo catching Covid days before a Juventus game? I think not. Players need to act responsibly. They earn six figures a year. They need to invest in their own career by looking after their bodies.

“If you catch the virus from a family member there isn’t a lot you could have done, but players can’t be flying off here, there and everywhere and putting themselves at risk. That’s unacceptable.

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“Is there anything wrong with staying indoors for a few days before a game? If it’s my career and if I earn my money because of my body I would make sure I look after it.

Darragh MacAnthony.Darragh MacAnthony.
Darragh MacAnthony.

“The season lasts eight/nine months and if we have to live in a bubble to be successful that’s what we should be doing. I’m probably wrong in saying it, but I am very frustrated.”

Brown and Dembele are expected to be back in the Posh squad for Saturday’s (September 19) League One visit of Fleetwood Town to the Weston Homes Stadium.

Idris Kanu and Bobby Copping, who are self-isolating for 14 days as they live with Dembele, won’t return to the club until next week.