The Dundee United Covid-19 saga took a new twist on Thursday. At first, it had been revealed by the club late on Wednesday night that three non-playing staff members had contacted the virus. The club cancelled first-team training on Wednesday as a result.
However, there was a new statement on Dundee United’s website on Thursday, which revealed that the club’s entire first-team staff would have to self-isolate.
Academy coach will take training
The statement also disclosed that Dundee United Academy coach Thomas Courts and other members of the Academy staff would take charge of first-team training.
Dundee United manager Micky Mellon is self-isolating (Photo by Rob Casey/SNS Group via Getty Images)
Mellon will miss Saturday’s trip to Livingston and will likely miss next Sunday’s game against Rangers.
That is a blow for the Tannadice side. It is one thing having players miss a game due to Covid-19. But it is another entirely to have the entire first-team coaching staff missing.
Could have discussed plans with coach
Still, that is just something that Dundee United will have to get on with. Mellon will no doubt have left details of his game plan for the fixtures with Courts. He could also be in contact with the academy coach over email and phone.
Dundee United players will have to try and win without their manager (Photo by Rob Casey/SNS Group via Getty Images)
It won’t be the same as having the manager there though. One positive aspect for Dundee United is that no players have tested positive for the virus.
Hopefully that remains the case, and no further games are cancelled in the Premiership this season due to the ongoing virus problem.