Ex-Sunderland manager tests positive for coronavirus

The Hammers and Hull were so close to kick-off that defender Issa Diop and midfielder Josh Cullen were initially named in the team for the Carabao Cup match.

But 15 minutes later the line-up was changed with both players omitted.

Assistant Alan Irvine took charge of the game.

Irvine said: “At 20 past six we suddenly got some information from our doctor and head physio to say there were three positive tests, the manager and the two players.

“We’d had contact in so far as we were in the same area of the stadium as David.

“We’d been at the stadium for about two hours before the match started.

“We were shocked by the news, we’ve had so many tests and not had any positive.

“But we’ve been very particular about protocol right from the start, the medical team are very aware of what has been happening and we’ve followed all the protocol, and we’ll be following protocol now.”

West Ham revealed all three are asymptomatic and will now follow Public Health England and Premier League guidelines and protocols, which will mean they have to isolate for 10 days.

PA report West Ham and Hull’s medical departments agreed the match could go ahead last night within the protocols and in consultation with the EFL’s medical department, and given the evidence that suggests there is very low risk of transmission during a match outdoors.