An unnamed Newcastle Jets player has become the first professional footballer in Australia to test positive to the COVID-19 virus.
The player, who underwent the test as a precaution before a pre-scheduled international flight, was a member of the Jets’ squad for last weekend’s A-League matches against Brisbane Roar and Melbourne City.
He was asymptomatic and Jets’ chief executive Lawrie McKinna said he remains in good health.
“He was fine, no symptoms whatsoever,” McKinna told AAP.
“He was tested positive … as we’ve found out the player and his family are in isolation and the rest of the squad don’t need to get into isolation.
“Obviously we’ll be monitoring the players’ health. It’s definitely real.” The test result came back on Friday, McKinna confirmed.
According to The World Game, the player featured in each of the club’s last two fixtures, with Brisbane and Melbourne City informed of the diagnosis.
Greek Australian player Dimitri Petratos currently plays for Newcastle United, featuring in the past few games for the club. Even if not diagnosed with the virus, Dimitri will need to undergo a 14-day isolation period.
Football Federation Australia suspended the A-League until April 22 amid increasing travel restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The decision was taken less than 24 hours after the Jets’ beat City 2-1 at McDonald Jones Stadium on Monday night.
In a statement the Jets said the player had begun quarantine in accordance with NSW Health protocols.
“Our playing squad are closely monitoring their health and will isolate themselves if they experience any symptoms,” the statement said.
Sourced by: AAP
