x

Cowley on Covid cases: It's scary how quickly it can change

Pompey's game at AFC Wimbledon this weekend is still on as we speak - but an increasing number of matches at all levels are being postponed because of a growing number of positive Covid cases coming to light.

And manager Danny Cowley has spoken of the importance of following strict new protocols that are in place for all Football League clubs.

Cowley says the Blues have been affected by positive results and told the official website he was happy to abide by the rules if it meant football could continue.

He told the site: 'We’ve got some Covid cases within the organisation and we’re obviously following the protocols. The situation is escalating again and so we continue to adhere to the guidelines provided by the government and EFL.

'I’m worried for society in general because we looked to be starting to get over the coronavirus situation — it’s scary how quickly it can change. Seeing the amount of games that have been postponed in the past 48 hours, I’m naturally concerned. I think we’d all agree that Christmas is not Christmas without football.

'But everyone’s health and safety is paramount — that goes without saying. It doesn’t matter whether it’s inside clubs or the supporters. I think we have to follow the advice and do all we possibly can to keep our bubble as safe and secure as possible.

'This is the reason why I’m speaking to the media via Zoom and other protocols have been ramped up by the EFL. We did lateral flow tests this morning (December 16) and we have to reduce the amount of time we spend inside, while being in smaller groups and stopping car sharing.

'In terms of matchdays, we’ll travel in two coaches and go back to players having single rooms when we need to stay overnight. We’ve lived by these processes before and know how they work, but it’s a shame because we felt we were moving away from them.'

What to read next:

Lincoln City 0 - 2 Portsmouth - Player Ratings and Reports
If you saw the match, please give us your player ratings and a mini match report.
No Pompey parade - but Southsea Common will see plenty of celebration
Pompey have had some memorable celebrations on Southsea Common since the turn of the century - and more such memories will be made on Sunday afternoon.
Portsmouth 1 - 2 Wigan Athletic - Player Ratings and Reports
If you saw the match, please give us your player ratings and a mini match report.
Pompey have new heroes in 2024 - and it takes me back to 1983, 2012 and many points in between
Sometimes I think about something I want to write about, get straight to it and end up rambling on for about 2,000 words. But this is different. I want to write 2,000 words about the League One champions and don’t know where or how to start.
Portsmouth 3 - 2 Barnsley - Player Ratings and Reports
If you saw the match, please give us your player ratings and a mini match report.
Bolton Wanderers 1 - 1 Portsmouth - Player Ratings and Reports
If you saw the match, please give us your player ratings and a mini match report.
Right Pompey approach can bring rewards at Bolton
It could be the under-statement of the season - Bolton v Pompey described as being as 'interesting contest'.
Our feet are still on ground: Pompey goal hero takes it a game at a time
Owen Moxon insists it's still 'feet on ground' time for Pompey as they try to edge closer to promotion when they host Shrewsbury on Saturday.
He's been exceptional - Kamara wins high praise for inspiring Pompey win at Wycombe
Jon Harley was quick to heap praise on Abu Kamara after the winger produced another top-class display to inspire Pompey to an Easter treat of a victory at Wycombe Wanderers.
Pompey chief on the moves that should protect English football and its clubs
Pompey's chief executive believes the new Football Governance Bill will help make the game more sustainable - and protect clubs from rogue owners.