Covid hits women’s team and match v West Ham on Sunday is off

By Paul Lagan

The worst week in Chelsea‘s recent history has resulted in the postponement of Sunday’s WSL match at home to West Ham.

Covid has struck the team and more players and have tested positive following their return from Germany.

The club said: “The decision was agreed between both teams and the FA after a number of positive tests for Covid-19 were returned within the Chelsea FC Women’s team set-up after the last round of testing on return to the UK. Those affected immediately began a period of self-isolation in accordance with Public Health England and Government guidelines.

The health and safety of our players, support staff and fans remain paramount. The women’s squad will now begin their winter break, returning to training in the New Year.

A revised date for the match will be confirmed in due course. All existing tickets to remain valid. Supporters who have purchased match day tickets can claim a full refund no later than 48 hours prior to the updated fixture date.

No further Chelsea FC teams have been affected.

Chelsea were dumped out of Europe in devastating fashion on Wednesday night - losing 4-0 to Wolfsburg and out of the knockout stage on goal difference.

This came on the back of a humiliating 1-0 league defeat at Reading that has put the defence of their title in serious doubt.