Positive Result Rules Sulayman Marreh Out Of Gabon Clash

The Gambia head coach Tom Saintfiet is set to miss Sulayman Marreh for the Gabon Africa Cup of Nations after testing positive for coronavirus.

A source at Gambia Football Federation (GFF) had confirmed there had been three positive cases in the camp at Libreville and now the Banjul-born defensive midfielder has now been named as one of the players.

The Federation has now confirmed that Marreh will withdraw from the squad as the player begins his mandatory 14-day self-isolation, a process that rules him out of Wednesday clash.

“Marreh along with all other members of the Scorpions have carried out the test including team officials and staff as mandated by CAF 48 hours before match day,” the GFF said in a statement.

“Upon receipt of the test results on Wednesday morning, it’s been confirmed that the midfielder was positive and have been isolated for another second test which further remains to show the same results.

“The tests were conducted under the supervision of CAF representative and his situations according to the regulations stipulate that he would not be able to make up the Scorpions squad due to his positive status and thus is been isolated in Libreville until he turns negative.”

Meanwhile, coach Saintfiet has assured fans that his charges plans to go past the Panthers have not changed despite Marreh being ruled out of the important match.

“Because we have a group of players who are very committed and confident, there is not much big difference in my style although the missing of Sulayman Marreh is a big one due to his experience, skills and qualities but our strategies will not change,” the gaffer told GFF website.

The Gambia will face Gabon in the first qualifier on November 12 before the return leg for days later in Banjul.

The Gambia are currently leading their 2021 AFCON qualification group with 4 points ahead of Gabon, DR Congo and Angola.