Portsmouth see THREE players test positive for COVID-19 as Sunderland's League One rivals await further results

Pompey – who along with Sunderland are battling for promotion from League One this term – opted to test all their players following a recent FA Cup clash with Arsenal, whose head coach Mikel Arteta tested positive for COVID-19.

And having received their first set of test results on Friday, March 20, the club received the news that three first-team players had tested positive

Sean Raggett, Andy Cannon and James Bolton are all now self-isolating in accordance with government guidelines, and are showing ‘mild or no symptoms’.

Portsmouth chief executive Mark Catlin said: “I received the news last night and immediately spoke to Kenny [Jackett, manager] and head physio Bobby Bacic. Kenny and I then spoke to all three players.

“Football is not immune from this virus and I can assure you that it only really hits home when those that you know contract it.

“All three players were in good spirits and perfectly calm – showing mild or no symptoms – and are looking forward to overcoming it as quickly as possible.

“We once again urge everyone to follow the current government guidelines.”

A club statement from Portsmouth confirmed that around half the playing squad and staff are still awaiting their test results, having all been tested earlier this week.

Sunderland have already played Portsmouth twice this season, with their most recent meeting coming on February 1.