’I don’t understand it at all’ - Gareth Southgate confused by Mason Mount, Ben Chilwell isolation requirement

England's midfielder Mason Mount takes part in training. Photo: Justin Tallis/AFP

England's midfielder Mason Mount takes part in training. Photo: Justin Tallis/AFP

Published Jun 23, 2021

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England manager Gareth Southgate said Mason Mount and Ben Chilwell's absence from Tuesday's 1-0 win over the Czech Republic in Euro 2020 was "bizarre" after they had to self-isolate as close contacts of Scotland's Billy Gilmour.

England said before Tuesday's match that the entire squad and staff returned negative Covid-19 results but Mount and Chilwell would have to isolate until June 28 after coming into contact with Chelsea team mate Gilmour.

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Mount and Chilwell were pictured embracing Gilmour at the end of last weekend's goalless draw.

None of the Scotland players had to isolate after Gilmour's positive test on Monday.

"Frankly I don't understand it at all," Southgate told ITV. "There are teams travelling around by plane, coach, bus in enclosed spaces for hours.

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"It's hugely disappointing for the players. It's a bizarre situation really. They've spent 120 seconds too long in a fairly open space.

"It's full of contradictions for me but we have to get on with it."

England, who finished as Group D winners, will play the runners-up from Group F - most likely France, Portugal or Germany - in the round of 16 on June 29.

Reuters