After Jose Mourinho’s comments in a press conference, it’s reported Roma defender Chris Smalling has agreed to the COVID-19 vaccine, as otherwise he wouldn’t be allowed to play in Serie A.
The England international defender had been one of the 10 or so players in Serie A who were yet to receive even one vaccination jab.
However, the change of rules in Italy from this week means only those with at least one vaccination dose can enter the locker room in a stadium, and therefore play in Serie A, B or C.
Now Sky Sports News claim Smalling has agreed to take the vaccine from tomorrow, so he can play against Milan on Thursday evening.
Mourinho hinted as much in this evening’s press conference, pointing out Roma expected everyone to take the vaccine.
“These are private matters and players have the right to protect their privacy. A few players had COVID last week, they asked for privacy and we respected that,” said the coach.
“Rules are rules, the law is the law, and the moment the Italian Government makes a decision on a vaccine mandate, then it has to be respected.
“If a player could go without, we respected that, but if it’s the law then we want the players to respect the law so they can do their job and play football. I don’t think there will be any problems.”
Chris Smalling has agreed to be vaccinated against Covid 19, and will be able to continue playing for Roma from tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/Ae9FjZPPWQ
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) January 5, 2022