Patrick Vieira misses Tottenham match as Palace boss tested positive for Covid-19

Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira will miss this afternoon’s Premier League match at Tottenham after testing positive for Covid-19.

The Eagles had been trying to get the match in north London postponed due to their squad being depleted by injuries and the virus.

“We can confirm that Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira is self-isolating after returning a positive test for Covid-19, and will be absent from the touchline for today’s match against Spurs,” tweeted Crystal Palace’s official account.

“Assistant manager Osian Roberts will deputise for Vieira for today’s match.”

Roberts, on pre-match duties, said “It’s been a challenging 24 hours but Patrick is fine. I’ve spoken to him at length several times. We have seven out, a combination of Covid, injuries and some returning from Covid and not ready to participate in this game. But we’re prepared, we’re professional and we’re mentally ready. Now we’re here we’re getting on with it.”

Asked if it came as a surprise that Palace’s application to postpone was rejected, Roberts replied: “Not to me. I’ve not be aware what has been going on in terms of the communication. We’ve been working diligently to prepare for the game. It’s an important part of the season and an important week for us. We’ve been focusing on that. We’re looking to perform.”

Roberts added that the Eagles “very rarely” pick their side until the day of a match. “We have to take many things into consideration,” said Roberts. “The decision on selection would have been made today anyway. Anything can happen, especially in this period.”

The Eagles have made one change for today’s fixture with Joachim Andersen replacing Marc Guehi in the starting line-up.

Vicente Guiata, Luke Milivojevic, Eberechi Eze, Michael Olise, Christian Benteke and Nathaniel Clyne all miss out.