Australia ditch plans to play friendlies in England over ‘worsening Covid-19 situation’

Australia were set to play England and the United States

Australia will not play friendlies in Europe next month (AFP)

Australia has called off plans to play two friendlies in England owing to the "worsening Covid-19 landscape".

The Football Federation Australia (FFA) had been close to confirming November dates for the fixtures as well as a training camp in Europe.

It had been widely reported in Australian media the opponents would have been the Three Lions and the United States.

An FFA statement said: "Regrettably, the ongoing and worsening Covid-19 landscape across Europe has provided complexities and risks to assemble players from across Europe and Asia and, following the latest advice from medical professionals, FFA will not be proceeding with activities in Europe at this time.

"FFA is committed to ensuring Australia's national teams at all levels return to action as soon as possible, however ensuring the health and wellbeing of players and staff remains FFA's foremost priority."

It follows New Zealand pulling out of a game against England, with the Republic of Ireland filling the gap.

The All Whites pulled out of the fixture due to concerns over travel and availability in the coronavirus pandemic, leaving the Football Association searching for a replacement fixture.

Stephen Kenny's side answered the call and will take on the Three Lions on November 12.

PA