The “health and wellbeing” of the Tyrone players is the Gaelic Player Association’s primary concern as question marks remain over whether or not the Red Hands will be able to fulfil the rescheduled All-Ireland SFC semi-final fixture with Kerry.
In a statement issued today, the GPA revealed that it has been in contact with the Tyrone squad, management and GAA in relation to the Covid-19 issues that the Ulster champions are currently experiencing.
The statement in full reads: “The Gaelic Players Association have been, and continue to be, in ongoing contact with the Tyrone Senior Football Squad through their GPA rep since the issues surrounding positive Covid-19 cases arose. Their health and wellbeing is our primary concern. We are also in contact with the Tyrone Senior Football Management and share their player welfare concerns.
“It’s important to note that players will always feel a deep sense of responsibility to play the game, represent their county and supporters, and will no doubt want to fulfil the All-Ireland semi-final fixture. However, it is imperative that their health and wellbeing is the priority in this situation. As such, we have offered support to the Tyrone squad through our comprehensive health screening.
“We will consult closely with the GAA to ensure adequate time is allowed to assess the welfare of players before a decision can be made by Tyrone.
“Above all we ask for respect to be shown to the amateur status of the players and that we are all mindful of the four teams who remain in the competition.
“Players will always want to play, but their welfare must come first in any decision made”.
TweetGPA statement on Covid 19 issues facing Tyrone Senior Football Squad.https://t.co/FxYMPKiwcL
— GPA (@gaelicplayers) August 11, 2021