Derek's comments certainly are strange IMO - and create more questions than answers. I do think he is a smooth operator, and everything he says to the press and during interviews is very purposeful; sometimes he might aswell be speaking directly to our upcoming opponents rather than giving a summary of the game for fans
Given the current climate, if Derek said players were unavailable - I think we'd all just assume that they were isolating and that would be the end of it. But the confidential reasons suggests it might be something else possibly?
Or.... maybe some of the missing squad members have tested positive for COVID-19, but he doesn't want to/can't say this publicly because of any stigmatism that might be attached to the player going forward? In the press we are starting to hear how some athletes are struggling with the side effects of the virus. In any other line of employment, you wouldn't disclose any underlying health issues about your employees? Players having muscle injuries is slightly different IMO.
Who knows. Regardless - I hope the players and staff affected are in good health.