Man Utd suffer Covid-19 scares as Michael Carrick joins player in self-isolating

Posted Sunday, January 10, 2021 by Dailystar.co.uk

Michael Carrick returned from a period of self-isolation for Manchester United's Carabao Cup clash with Manchester City after a family member is thought to have tested positive for Covid-19

Manchester United have suffered a coronavirus scare, with coach Michael Carrick forced to self-isolate and youngster Facundo Pellistri returning a positive test.

Carrick is a key member of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's backroom staff and the former midfielder is thought to have missed United's Premier League wins over Wolves and Aston Villa as a result of having to go into isolation.

It is believed a family member tested positive for the virus and Carrick did not, but the 39-year-old was deemed to have been in close contact and had to self-isolate.

He was back in time for the 2-0 Carabao Cup semi-final defeat to Manchester City and a club spokesperson confirmed: "Michael wasn't with us for a while but he's back now."

Man Utd suffer Covid-19 scares as Michael Carrick joins player in self-isolating
Michael Carrick returned from a period of self-isolation for Manchester United's Carabao Cup clash with Manchester City after a family member is thought to have tested positive for Covid-19 (Image: PA)

It comes after it was revealed that Pellistri had contracted the virus, with his management team Equipo TMA confirming the news earlier this week.

Speaking about the rise in positive Covid-19 tests among Premier League players and staff members, Solskjaer said: "I think we've done well to follow the protocols as we have.

"We've had the odd case and Facundo Pellistri got a positive, so he reported that on his Twitter site.

Man Utd suffer Covid-19 scares as Michael Carrick joins player in self-isolating
Facundo Pellistri tested positive for the virus earlier this week (Image: Manchester United via Getty Imag)

"We don't normally comment on who they are but Facundo is well and hopefully he'll be back with us soon. He's been with the reserves and the 23s and he wasn't really in our group over Christmas. Apart from that, we have a full and fit squad.

"Of course, you're worried about what's happening in society and around the country, it's a big thing. I personally feel safe within our bubble, I think we've taken all the steps we've had to following the protocols and guidelines, the club has been good, the players have been following as well as they can.

"What's happening outside at different clubs and society is frightening and we have a responsibility and duty to try and do our best to stay clear and keep within the bubbles and the guidelines.

"I hope we can continue playing because it's a positive impact for everyone in lockdown. I feel at home when you don't have a game yourself, you're looking forward to watching a game on telly and the mental well-being of football has been a big positive, I think."