Chris Wilder on Sheffield United's Covid-19 absences

In mid-afternoon, the Blades issued a statement saying that the club had recorded a number of positive coronavirus tests after the latest round of testing.

Due to medical confidentiality, the Blades - whose game at Burnley goes ahead tonight - will not be revealing the names of those affected.

United have named just one change from the starting line-up who lined up from the off against Everton on Boxing Day with Lys Mousset replacing Oliver McBurnie. Only seven substitutes have been named,

The other players who are not involved in the matchday squad who were on Saturday alongside McBurnie are Billy Sharp and Phil Jagielka.

The Blades also have other players who are injured, while John Lundstram is suspended for tonight’s game.

Wilder, speaking ahead of this evening’s kick-off at Turf Moor, said: “Of course, it has impacted us because we have got a couple of players missing through illness. We have a player who has had to go and get tested this morning as well. .We have got a couple of injuries as well.

“It is not ideal, but we have got to get on with what we have got and that’s what we will do.

“We just notified the relevant authorities. We have a situation at the football club, but I want to play football.

“That’s how it is and we are not looking to get anything canned or whatever.

“We did the right thing as part of acting responsibly with the Premier League and told them the situation regarding the players who are ill plus four or five backroom staff members as well who have tested positive."

The individuals who have tested positive have now entered into a period of self-isolation in accordance with Premier League and Government guidelines.

Earlier today, the Premier League confirmed 18 positive coronavirus tests, the highest figure so far.

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