FC Dallas have been forced to withdraw from the Major League Soccer is Back tournament after ten players tested positive for coronavirus. 

Three players from two other clubs have also tested positive, two from Nashville and one from Columbus. 

The league confirmed the decision was made in the ‘best interest of the health of all the players and staff competing in the tournament’.

MLS Commissioner Don Garbe said in a statement: “Given the impact of the number of positive tests on the club’s ability to train and play competitive matches, we have made the decision to withdraw FC Dallas from the MLS is Back Tournament.

“The health of everyone involved in our return to play has always been our top priority, and we will continue to make decisions consistent with that priority.

“The decision was made in the best interest of the health of all players and staff participating in the tournament, and in line with protocols created in conjunction with local and national health authorities and infectious disease experts.”

 FC Dallas President Dan Hunt added: “We’re looking forward to resuming the 2020 season once the entire club is healthy and in position to play competitive matches at the highest level.”

The one-off tournament is to mark the league’s return to action since the coronavirus pandemic. 

It will be played behind-closed-doors from July 8-August 11 at the Walt Disney complex in Orlando, Florida.