Spurs slam stars for flouting coronavirus protocols

Tottenham have condemned Erik Lamela, Sergio Reguilon and Giovani Lo Celso for breaking coronavirus protocols after the trio were spotted at a large party.

Lamela, Lo Celso and Reguilon were pictured at the gathering over the Christmas period.

West Ham’s Manuel Lanzini was also in attendance, breaching strict guidelines that prohibit mixing with other people indoors due to Covid-19.

The photo was circulated on social media and Tottenham are set to take disciplinary action after issuing an angry rebuke about the players’ behaviour.

Lamela was not named in the squad for Saturday’s Premier League victory against Leeds, while Reguilon was on the bench and Lo Celso out injured.

“We are extremely disappointed and strongly condemn this image showing some of our players with family and friends together at Christmas, particularly as we know the sacrifices everybody around the country made to stay safe over the festive period,” the Tottenham statement said.

“The rules are clear, there are no exceptions, and we regularly remind all our players and staff about the latest protocols and their responsibilities to adhere and set an example.

“The matter will be dealt with internally.”

Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho had been critical of the Premier League for cancelling his team’s match against Fulham in midweek after a virus outbreak in the Cottagers’ squad.

Standing by those comments, Mourinho opted against condemning his players for their own slip-up.

“I go back to the initial rules of if you have 14 players available you have to play. I don’t see another reason for not doing it,” he said. 

“I think every club does the best for their players to keep them all safe but then there are moments in private lives which you cannot control. 

“Not everyone can be blamed so we have to carry on. If somebody has some positives, we have to play.”

It is not the first time Tottenham players have broken lockdown rules as there were several incidents during the first lockdown in the spring.

Mourinho was seen holding a personal training session with Tanguy Ndombele, while Ryan Sessegnon and Davinson Sanchez were seen out running together.

Serge Aurier was a repeat offender, having a haircut and a personal training session with Moussa Sissoko.

West Ham also reminded Lanzini of his responsibilities.

A West Ham spokesperson said: “The club has set the highest possible standards with its protocols and measures relating to COVID-19 so we are disappointed to learn of Manuel Lanzini’s actions.

“The matter has been dealt with internally and Manuel has been strongly reminded of his responsibilities.”