Cobblers' play-off rivals reveal positive tests

Cobblers' play-off rivals Exeter City and Colchester United have confirmed six positive tests for coronavirus between them, while semi-final opponents Cheltenham Town have been given the all-clear in the first round of testing.

Physio Ignacio Herrando was the only player or member of staff from the Cobblers to test positive and he will now isolate for seven days, with the squad still scheduled to be back in training on Monday.

Colchester, who face Exeter in the other semi-final, revealed they returned four positive tests.

A club statement confirmed: "Of the 28 Colchester United players and staff that completed tests at Florence Park earlier this week, four returned positive results for the virus.

"In line with the EFL protocols surrounding a return to training, they will now self isolate at home for the next seven days.

"They will then undergo strict monitoring procedures, including the need for a negative test, before they can return to the training ground.

"All the other members of the squad and staff returned negative tests and will begin training next week ahead of the proposed play-off semi-final against Exeter City.

"At this time, Colchester United are respecting medical confidentiality guidelines and won't be naming the four concerned."

Exeter released their own statement, which said: "First-team players and members of Exeter City's coaching and medical teams were tested for Covid-19 last week as part of the ‘return to playing’ testing regime at the club.

"Following this first phase, two tests have returned positive results. The club has introduced strict measures around testing and visiting the training ground. The two from the group who had tested positive, had not displayed any symptoms associated with Covid-19.

"In line with protocols set out by the EFL, they both began a seven day period of self-isolation following confirmation of the positive tests and will only return to the training ground once they have a confirmed negative test.

"Exeter City FC will be respecting medical confidentiality and not naming those involved."

Cheltenham confirmed they had no positive results.

All players and staff from the four play-off competing clubs will be tested again in the next few days.