Championship: Nine people at six clubs test positive for coronavirus

The EFL could return as early as 6 June: PA
The EFL could return as early as 6 June: PA

The English Football League has confirmed that nine players or members of staff at six different Championship clubs have tested positive for coronavirus.

Over 1,000 players and members of staff participated in the latest round of testing, which began on 30 May and ended on 2 June, with Preston North End and Sheffield Wednesday confirming they are among the clubs to be affected.

The EFL announced its intention to resume the Championship season on 20 June earlier this week. However, the decision was met with criticism by some member clubs, including QPR who “vehemently oppose” the move and labelled the lack of communication “absolutely appalling”.

“Following the latest round of Covid-19 testing, the EFL can confirm that 1094 players and Club staff from the 24 Championship Clubs were tested over the course of Saturday 30 May, Sunday 31 May, Monday 1 June and Tuesday 2 June with nine individuals testing positive from six clubs,” a statement read.

“Those players or club staff who have tested positive will now self-isolate in line with the guidelines provided by the EFL and only those who have tested negative will be permitted to enter training ground facilities.”

In League Two, where only the four clubs in the play-off places are participating, there were zero positive cases from a sample size of 126.

Anyone who has tested positive will enter self-isolation in line with the guidelines provided by the EFL.