Liverpool have confirmed they have closed their training ground due to a “rapidly growing” number of positive Covid-19 cases, plunging their EFL Cup semi-final first leg against Arsenal into doubt. On Tuesday, the Premier League side asked for the game to be postponed due to rising absences in their squad.
Liverpool assistant Pep Lijnders has returned a positive COVID-19 test (Image: GETTY)
They suffered a fresh blow on Wednesday morning after assistant Pep Lijnders, who stood in for Klopp on the touchline during the 2-2 draw with Chelsea, returned a positive test.
The club have now confirmed in a statement that they have decided to shut their AXA Training Centre after consulting the Public Health authority.
The EFL are yet to make a decision over a possible postponement.
Liverpool's statement read: "Liverpool Football Club can confirm the first-team training facilities at AXA Training Centre have been temporarily closed due to a rapidly growing number of suspected positive COVID-19 cases.
“The Reds acted to suspend operations within the facility today after the latest round of testing revealed multiple new suspected positives. The decision was made after consultation with the relevant Public Health authority.
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
“The new cases are in addition to those recorded on Monday and Tuesday morning. Among the multiple players and staff who tested positive in the latest round was Pepijn Lijnders, resulting in the cancellation of the pre-Arsenal press conference he had been due to host this morning.
“The club has lodged an application with the EFL for the postponement of Thursday’s Carabao Cup semi-final, first-leg tie with the Gunners at Emirates Stadium. The outcome of that submission is currently pending.
“We will offer a further update on the reopening of the training centre in due course.”
Lijnders, meanwhile, was due to hold a pre-match press conference to preview the Arsenal game on Wednesday.
Liverpool's media briefing however was cancelled earlier following his positive result.