Australia ditch plans to play friendlies in England over ‘worsening Covid-19 situation’
Australia were set to play England and the United States
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Australia has called off plans to play two friendlies in England owing to the "worsening Covid-19 landscape".
The Football Federation Australia (FFA) had been close to confirming November dates for the fixtures as well as a training camp in Europe.
It had been widely reported in Australian media the opponents would have been the Three Lions and the United States.
An FFA statement said: "Regrettably, the ongoing and worsening Covid-19 landscape across Europe has provided complexities and risks to assemble players from across Europe and Asia and, following the latest advice from medical professionals, FFA will not be proceeding with activities in Europe at this time.
"FFA is committed to ensuring Australia's national teams at all levels return to action as soon as possible, however ensuring the health and wellbeing of players and staff remains FFA's foremost priority."
It follows New Zealand pulling out of a game against England, with the Republic of Ireland filling the gap.
The All Whites pulled out of the fixture due to concerns over travel and availability in the coronavirus pandemic, leaving the Football Association searching for a replacement fixture.
Stephen Kenny's side answered the call and will take on the Three Lions on November 12.
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments