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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
Sport
Ross Pilcher

Celtic players in fresh Covid-19 drama as Norway v Israel game is called off after another positive test

Four of Celtic’s international stars have had to deal with more Covid-19 drama whilst away with their countries.

Israel have been hit with another positive test which could affect Nir Bitton and Hatem Elhamed, although the pair contracted coronavirus last month while with the squad.

Their scheduled friendly against Norway has now been canceled, meaning they won’t now face teammates Kris Ajer and Mohamed Elyounoussi, who was the hat-trick hero for Neil Lennon’s side against Motherwell at the weekend.

The Norwegian health board had originally given the game the go ahead, but have since revered that decision with the risk posed now too great to take any risks.

The affected Israel player has been quarantined, along with two close contacts although it’s not known which of his teammates they are.

No players from either camp came into contact with each other but precautions have been taken in any case.

NFF secretary general Pal Bjerketvedt said: "It is of course sad to cancel a match hours before kick-off. At the same time, it underlines the seriousness of the situation we are in.

"Over 500 international matches in Europe have been held this autumn. Therefore, we are confident that the protocols provide the necessary infection control framework around the matches that are played.

"Now that the health authorities are unsure of the risk of spreading after an outbreak of infection in the Israeli squad and recommend canceling the match, we will of course follow this."

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