SAINTS' scheduled FA Cup third-round home clash with Shrewsbury Town has been postponed due to a COVID-19 outbreak surrounding the visitors.

The contest was due to take place at St Mary’s on Saturday (8pm) but has now been axed due to safety concerns amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Shrewsbury have not been thrown out of the competition as yet, with the outcome of the fixture set to be decided in a meeting of the FA’s Professional Game Board next week.

A statement on the Saints website read: “The club received notice of the decision from the Football Association this morning, after a number of Shrewsbury players and staff members tested positive for COVID-19.

“A meeting of The FA’s Professional Game Board will take place early next week to make a decision as to what will happen with the fixture, and we will update supporters as soon as we have any further information.

“The club would also like to send its best wishes to the players and staff affected at Shrewsbury, and we wish them all a speedy recovery."

The tie had originally been put in doubt after the Shrews on Wednesday confirmed "several" members of their playing and coaching staff had tested positive for COVID-19.

A post on the League One outfit’s website today read: “Shrewsbury Town Football Club earlier confirmed several members of the Town squad and first team staff tested positive for COVID-19.

“In accordance with EFL and Government guidelines, all concerned individuals have now entered into a period of self-isolation.

“The health and safety of all staff members at Shrewsbury Town Football club remains paramount and the club continually takes all necessary steps to protect all where possible.

“The club has informed Shropshire Public Health, the EFL, and the FA of the current situation.

“We reluctantly have had to advise the FA that we are unable to fulfil our third round Emirates FA Cup fixture with Southampton this Saturday following medical advice given to the club that it would be unsafe to play the match.

“No training has taken place since last week and the club has closed our Sundorne Castle Training Ground for 10 days. This decision and our actions have been supported by Public Health (Shropshire).”