Manu Tuilagi RULED OUT of first start in eight months

Friday, 04 June 2021 at 14:35

byRugby Rucker

Sale Sharks have confirmed that a member of its staff received a positive COVID-19 test during routine lateral flow testing at the club’s Carrington training facility this week.

As a result, video analysis of training was carried out in line with Premiership Rugby guidelines, and all players who came into contact with that member of staff were directed to self-isolate until further testing could be arranged.

In consultation with Public Health England a round of drive-through PCR testing was also conducted. That member of staff returned a further positive result and is continuing to isolate.

There were no additional positive COVID-19 tests and all other players will return to full training next week.

However, following further investigation it was noted that Manu Tuilagi came into close contact with the affected member of staff.

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ᴛᴇᴀᴍ ᴄʜᴀɴɢᴇ | 🦈v🃏 @Manutuilagi has been ruled out of tonights clash with @Harlequins and will be replaced in the Sale Sharks Starting XV by Robert du Preez. Arron Reed moves onto the bench as cover for the back three. Read more here 👉 fal.cn/3fQZs

1:31 PM · Jun 4, 2021

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As a result, the club will replace him in the matchday squad for the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match against Harlequins on Friday. Robert du Preez will take his place in the starting XV, with Aaron Reed taking the South African’s place among the replacements.

All players are being tested daily and we look forward to having the full team back in training ahead of the next game.

The member of staff who tested positive is being monitored by the Sharks medical staff, and in the interests of privacy, Sale Sharks will not be disclosing their name.