Monaco-Montpellier Postponed Due To Swine Flu Epidemic

The Ligue 1 fixture between Monaco and Montpellier has become the second French top flight encounter to be postponed because of swine flu, following the controversial call-off of the Clasico between Olympique de Marseille and Paris Saint-Germain on October 25.

While the previous match was called off with only a matter of hours remaining before kick-off, the LFP (Ligue de Football Professional) have acted swiftly on this occasion to ensure that there is no such confusion.

“Eight players are affected by the flu,” Dr. Rene Raimondi explained to France Football.

“Three are currently positive for H1N1 virus. All are strongly suspected to also be positive, even if their tests have proven negative for the moment [their children are confirmed to have swine flu]. Three other players and staff members are also sick.

“The players are in quarantine and are currently receiving treatment.”

In light of this news, the LFP called the game off on Thursday evening, releasing a statement on the issue.

“Given the results, and to avoid contagion, the Expert Medical Commission recommended the postponement of the match and isolation of all the players and coaching staff of Montpellier Herault SC for a minimum of 72 hours, or until Monday morning,” the press release explained.

“This period thus makes the holding of the meeting, Monaco-Montpellier impossible for the date originally scheduled, Saturday, November 28 at 19:00. The new game date will be on the agenda of the next meeting of the Commission of Competitions to be held on Wednesday, December 2.”

Emir Spahic of MHSC was the first Ligue 1 player to contract the virus, though his experience was at the start of the season. Victor Hugo Montano, Lilian Compan and Gregory Lacombe are thought to be the players now suffering.