Blackpool's Boxing Day game CALLED OFF due to positive Covid test in the Rochdale camp

The Seasiders were due to welcome Brian Barry-Murphy's side to Bloomfield Road tomorrow for their traditional festive encounter.

But the game has now been suspended after Rochdale informed the EFL they are "unable to fulfil" the fixture.

The matter will now be investigated by the EFL and a rearranged date will be announced in due course.

"Rochdale’s League One fixture against Blackpool on Saturday, December 26 has been suspended," the EFL said in a statement.

"The club informed the EFL that they would be unable to fulfil the fixture following a recent positive COVID-19 test and the requirement for players and staff to self-isolate as per EFL and Government guidance in order to mitigate against the risk of further infection.

"The circumstances surrounding the postponement will now be the subject of an investigation in accordance with EFL Regulations.

"A revised date for the rearranged fixture will be confirmed in due course."

Blackpool's midweek trip to Sunderland was also postponed following a Covid outbreak at the Stadium of Light.

Rochdale are just the latest League One club to cancel a game due to Covid, with the likes of Sunderland, Ipswich Town, Peterborough United and Hull City all suffering outbreaks.

Blackpool duo Chris Maxwell and Matty Virtue tested positive earlier in the week, but the Seasiders' Boxing Day clash was due to go ahead as planned, as the remainder of the squad showed no symptoms

Maxwell and Virtue returned their positive tests during time off, with head coach Critchley not taking training sessions on Sunday or Monday following Saturday’s goalless draw at Accrington Stanley.

Head coach Neil Critchley said a "football circuit breaker" couldn't be ruled out to help combat the spread of the new strain of the coronavirus.

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