The trio of Jaden Sancho, Tammy Abraham, and Ben Chilwell will miss England’s face-off against Wales on Thursday as they attended a party amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The attended a birthday party organized by Abraham’s family member and because of their decision, they were prohibited to join the squad.
This could have been easily fined up to £10,000 after the players breached the government’s ‘rule of six’.
However, a statement from the Metropolitan Police on Tuesday said: “As a matter of course the MPS [Metropolitan Police Service] is not investigating COVID-related issues retrospectively.
“Where we become aware of a breach occurring, officers will seek to engage, explain and encourage people to follow the rules, only enforcing as a last resort.
“Where alleged breaches are brought to our attention after the event, officers will not have not had the opportunity to engage, explain or encourage, and those involved will not have had the opportunity to respond positively to that process – as most people do.
“Therefore, it would not be appropriate or effective use of resources in most circumstances to investigate or pursue enforcement. We encourage everyone to make themselves aware of, and to follow, the rules.”
The FA is still conducting an investigation into the attendance at the party despite the Met’s decision. All these drams and involvement with the police have made Gareth Southgate furious as per Sky Sports News.
All the three players stopped to join as they missed their COVID test too while the rest of the England players signed in and had their regular test. On Tuesday, the entire squad will be tested again as per UEFA protocols prior to Wales game.
When asked about the incident and party, Abraham deeply regretted the casualty that took place. He said that he was unaware of the small party being organized by his family for his 23rd birthday.
“Although I was totally unaware this was planned, I would like to wholeheartedly apologise for the naivety shown by all for the organisation and attending of this gathering.
“I recognise that I have a responsibility both in my professional and personal life to honour and respect the guidelines and deeply regret that this took place. All I can do now is learn from it, apologise to everyone and ensure it never happens again,” said Abraham.
Both his compatriots, Ben Chilwell and Jadon Sancho apologized as well for attending the party and pledged to never repeat the mistake. The England manager still expects that the trio will be eligible to play the international match.
