The SPFL has rejected a request from Hibs that Celtic players undergo more tests ahead of tonight’s clash at Celtic Park.
John Kennedy revealed at a media conference on Saturday that everyone on the trip to Dubai had been tested the previous day when they returned from Dubai.
On Sunday afternoon Celtic announced that one player (Chris Jullien) had tested positive, by lunchtime today 13 players plus Neil Lennon and John Kennedy were put into self-isolation after being identified as close contacts of Jullien.
BREAKING: Hibs’ request for Celtic to be tested for #COVID19 again has been refused by Celtic & SPFL on grounds that it’s not required under current protocols.
Some Hibs players have reservations about playing, but it’s unclear at this stage if any have chosen not to play.
— Anthony Joseph (@AnthonyRJoseph) January 11, 2021
Premiership clubs are required to test their players twice a week in line with the protocols that came into play in June when players returned to training.
Gavin Strachan will take charge of Celtic tonight with assistance from Reserve coaches Tommy McIntyre and Stephen McManus with Celtic trailing 22 points behind in second place with four matches less played.
The Celtic team will be announced at 6.30pm tonight.
BREAKING: Hibernian have consulted their players today over whether they feel comfortable playing in tonight’s game; some are believed to have reservations about participating, but it is unclear at this stage if any have chosen not to play.
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) January 11, 2021