Following our latest round of Covid-19 testing, we are pleased to confirm our return to training ahead of restarting league action next weekend.
First team players and staff reported to Meadow Lane for 'drive-through' testing this week following the most recent positive results, which led to our withdrawal from the Emirates FA Cup, the postponement of two Vanarama National League matches and the suspension of training for a period of isolation.
And, while unfortunately one further member of our playing squad has tested positive and must now self-isolate for 10 days, we have communicated to the National League that we are in a position to resume our season.
Our CEO, Jason Turner, said: "As ever, our thoughts are with the latest player to contract the virus. It’s likely he was in the incubation period at the time of his last test, hence this isolated positive result. Our medical team are on hand to provide him with the best possible care and guidance.
"While it's of course disappointing to receive this further confirmed case, we are confident that our recent 'firebreak' actions have had the desired effect in terms of suppressing the spread of the virus within the squad.
"Several of the players who previously tested positive have now completed their isolation phase and are ready to return to training, so we are looking forward to welcoming all available players back to the club to begin our preparations for next Saturday's rearranged trip to Aldershot Town.
"We will carry out another round of testing next week, including an additional antibody test which will help us identify anyone who contracted the virus between our play-off campaign and the resumption of our testing regime ahead of the 2020-21 season.
"Once again, I'd like to say a huge thank you to our owners, Chris and Alex Reedtz, for providing the funding to enable us to make informed decisions throughout this challenging time and to protect the welfare of our players and staff.
"I hope the league will look at our situation and now realise that a wider testing regime is required to ensure we all continue playing football."