Wexford GAA chairman Micheál Martin has pulled up Clare manager Brian Lohan for remarks that the Wexford players who tested positive for Covid-19 recently “nominated” two members of his Clare squad as close contacts to the HSE.

After yesterday's win over Laois at O'Moore Park, Lohan told RTÉ that there had been "a whole lot of anger amongst our set-up as a result of what happened”, with two of his players ruled out. The Banner boss described the situation as "unusual" as they seek further clarification on the issue.

Model County chief Martin responded to those claims when speaking to South East Radio this morning, saying such comments were “ill-informed” and “outrageous”. He said it was “public health and the HSE" that identified the players as close contacts.

“I am not sure what is going on in relation to Brian Lohan’s comments other than to say they are completely and factually inaccurate, incorrect, and very disappointed to have to address them this morning. I would think they are ill-informed," Martin expressed.

“Quite frankly, I think they are outrageous comments by Brian Lohan.

“It has been made clear at all times both by HSE midwest to Clare, as far as I am aware, and directly via myself to my counterpart in Clare that at no time did Wexford GAA or players of Wexford nominate close contacts. That simply doesn't happen. 

He continued: “The only people that decide whether you are a close contact or not are public health and the HSE. So I am disappointed to have to address it this morning and the insinuation that our players nominated is completely inaccurate.

“We certainly don't question public health. They make the decision and we have followed their guidelines at all times. The comments are inaccurate and are quite hurtful to the players involved.”

Wexford GAA also issued a statement regarding the comments made by Lohan.

“Wexford GAA wish to address the comments made by Clare Senior Hurling Manager Brian Lohan on Sunday May 23rd,” it reads.

“The suggestion made that members of Wexford GAA had somehow nominated Clare players as close contacts is factually incorrect.

“Wexford GAA have again spoken to HSE South East this morning and this position can be independently verified by HSE. Wexford GAA will continue to work through the protocols as requested by HSE.”

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