West Ham players Issa Diop and Josh Cullen, plus manager David Moyes, have all tested positive for Covid-19 ahead of the Hammers’ third round Carabao Cup tie against Hull City.
The Hammers players had yet to come out for their warm-ups and the team was officially announced with the playing duo named among the starting lineup. However, just a few minutes later both were withdrawn.
Diop was replaced by academy player Harrison Ashby while Cullen’s place was taken by Jack Wilshere in midfield.
Rumours started to swirl regarding their absences, ranging from the duo testing positive for COVID-19 and others believing they could be on the verge of being sold.
By the time the match kicked off, the club had still not said why the players were ruled out of the game.
David Moyes, who usually watches the team warm up, was nowhere to be seen either as only his coaches Paul Nevin, Stuart Pearce and Kevin Nolan were watching on.
Fifteen minutes into the game, West Ham released a statement, saying: “West Ham United can confirm that David Moyes, Issa Diop and Josh Cullen have returned positive tests for COVID-19.
“The Club’s medical team were informed of the test results as the team were at London Stadium preparing for this evening’s Carabao Cup third round tie against Hull City. The manager and both players immediately left the stadium and have returned home.
“All three, who are asymptomatic, will now follow Public Health England and Premier League guidelines and protocols.
“Everyone at West Ham United send their best wishes to David, Issa and Josh.
“Tuesday’s match will go ahead as planned, with Assistant Manager Alan Irvine taking charge of the team.”
