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England U21s clash with Romania cancelled due to positive Covid-19 tests

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

Lee Carsley’s debut as England Under-21 head coach has been delayed after their upcoming friendly against Romania was cancelled.

The Young Lions were due to travel to Bucharest on Friday as they continue preparations for the start of qualification for the next U21 European Championship, which takes place in Romania and Georgia in the summer of 2023.

England are due to host Kosovo in their opening qualifier in Milton Keynes on Tuesday night, with former Everton midfielder Lee Carsley - who is being assisted in the role by Ashley Cole - taking the reins after being appointed as Aidy Boothroyd’s successor in July.

However, that initial trip to Romania is now off after two positive Covid-19 tests were recorded in the England camp.

A statement from the Football Association (FA) read: "England men's Under-21s will no longer travel to play Romania on Friday after two positive Covid-19 tests were reported within the party of players and support staff.

"It has been decided to cancel the trip as a precaution and our thanks go to the Romanian Football Federation for their understanding.

"The individuals concerned were immediately isolated from the rest of the group, with the squad still based at St. George's Park."

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