Following a positive Covid-19 test result, goalkeeper Stefan Marinovic has withdrawn from the men’s national team squad ahead of their upcoming games against Jordan and Uzbekistan. 

The 27-cap All White is fully vaccinated against Covid-19 and has not travelled to join the side in Abu Dhabi. Instead he will stay in Israel with his club Hapoel Nof HaGalil. If he recovers while the team are still in camp the option will be explored for him to rejoin the side.

Stefan Marinovic will be replaced by Altrincham FC’s Matthew Gould who is currently uncapped. 

Head Coach Danny Hay is disappointed to lose Stefan Marinovic but confident in the other goalkeepers in the squad:

“Obviously first and foremost we wish Stefan a speedy recovery. Luckily he isn’t experiencing any major symptoms and is vaccinated so I’m sure he will be back on the pitch soon. 

“We have good depth in goal. Even though we are missing Stef, as well as Oli Sail who is also recovering from injury, I have every confidence in Michael and Jamie who were both part of our Olympic campaign. 

“The situation also now gives us the opportunity to bring Matthew Gould in for the first time, someone who has been on our radar for a while.”

The All Whites face Jordan on Friday 28 January 2022 (Saturday 29 January NZ) at New York University Stadium, Abu Dhabi (kick-off 7pm / 4am NZ) and Uzbekistan on Tuesday 1 February 2022 (Wednesday 2 February NZ) at The Sevens Stadium, Dubai (kick-off 7pm / 4am NZ). 

Article added: Tuesday 25 January 2022