Middlesbrough's FA Cup trip to Brentford in doubt after Covid-19 outbreak at Rockliffe training ground

As a result Neil Warnock’s side have been unable to carry out any preparation work on the training pitches ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup match at Brentford (6pm kick-off).

Boro completed a round of tests earlier this week, which included staff and under-23 players.

Further mandatory tests took place on Thursday morning with the results expected ahead of the weekend’s match.

It was announced on Wednesday that EFL clubs will conduct tests twice a week from Monday January 11.

Several other clubs have been hit with Covid-19 outbreaks in recent weeks, with Derby's first-team squad set to miss their third-round FA Cup tie at Chorley while self-isolating.

The Rams team for the match will now be made up of under-23 and under-18 players.

Several EFL matches were postponed in December due to Covid-19 cases, yet it’s unclear how many cases it takes for a game to be called off.

No club will have to forfeit an FA Cup game if they are affected by an outbreak, with each case to be assessed by the FA on its individual circumstances.

Clubs have been told they must fulfil FA Cup fixtures if they have 14 players fit and available, and must apply for a review if they feel it’s not possible.

Boro’s game against Rotherham on Boxing Day was postponed after a number of positive tests in the Millers camp.

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