Middlesbrough player tests positive for Covid-19

An unnamed Middlesbrough player is understood to have tested positive for Covid-19 and spent a full week in self-isolation.

Reports suggest that the positive test came at the end of last week and the player stayed away from the club's training base since then.

It is understood that further tests carried out by the club have been negative and the game against Bournemouth is expected to go ahead on Saturday.

This positive test is the second major one in a week, with manager Neil Warnock also testing positive for the virus. Warnock is currently in isolation and hopeful of returning soon.

Middlesbrough assistant manager Kevin Blackwell is expected to lead the team on Saturday and will take over press duties until Warnock returns.

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Middlesbrough would be hoping for a better result on Saturday following two successive defeats in all competitions.