Host nation and defending champions Canada suffered a blow when it was announced that their skipper Kirby Dach suffered a wrist injury during his side's pre-tournament win over Russia yesterday.

Dach, 19, will now return to his club the Chicago Blackhawks for examination by the team's doctors.

Meanwhile, the disrupted build-up endured by the German team continued with news of a further positive coronavirus test within the camp.

One unnamed player has tested positive for COVID-19 and must remain in quarantine until at least January 4 2021, the day before the tournament is due to conclude.

Meanwhile, ten players and eight staff members from the German team have been released from quarantine and will begin to practice, joining the six players who had previously been released from quarantine.

Three of the eight players that tested positive for COVID-19 last week must remain in quarantine until December 27, while the remainder must continue quarantining until at least December 29.

Action begins tomorrow with two Group A games as Switzerland play Slovakia and Germany take on Finland.

Hosts Canada, Germany and Finland complete that group.

The final game of the Christmas Day triple-header sees last year's silver medallists Russia take on the United States as Group B begins.

Sweden, Czech Republic and Austria complete that group.

All matches are being played in a bio-secure bubble without spectators at Rogers Place in Edmonton.

Competition was due to take place in both Edmonton and Red Deer.

The preliminary stages of the competition are due to conclude on Thursday December 31.

The knockout stages are due to begin on Saturday January 2 2021 ahead of the medal matches, scheduled for Tuesday January 5.