Aberdeen footballer tests positive for coronavirus

Aberdeen Football Club have confirmed that a first-team player has tested positive for coronavirus.

The player has not shown any symptoms and has been self-isolating since the test result.

Aberdeen’s squad has returned to training ahead of the new season, which is scheduled to start on August 1, and contact training has been permitted from this week.

Strict protocols have been in place for clubs, including twice-weekly testing and it was during this procedure that the player’s infection was identified.

A club statement read: “Aberdeen FC confirms that, following the mandatory twice-weekly testing, a member of the first team squad has tested positive for COVID-19.

“No other members of the first team, coaching staff or essential staff at the training ground tested positive.

“The individual, who is asymptomatic, has been self-isolating since receiving the test result and will be in regular contact with the medical staff at Cormack Park before he returns to training.

“Since training resumed, the club has strictly followed the Joint Response Group (JRG) protocols including social distancing, increased sanitisation practices, twice weekly testing, and small group training sessions.

“It’s therefore unlikely there will be any risk to the wider player group and the planned training schedule will not be impacted.

“The club is satisfied that the regular testing regime, provided by The Aberdeen Clinic, together with the stringent hygiene and safety measures in place are working effectively.”