Southampton club issued statement that the club is taking “sensible precautions” at Staplewood after midfielder Stuart Armstrong tested positive for COVID-19 while on international duty.
A statement on the Saints website read: “Southampton Football Club can confirm midfielder Stuart Armstrong has tested positive for COVID-19. The midfielder returned a negative test for COVID-19 on arrival with the Scottish National Team on Monday but the supplementary UEFA test returned a positive result this morning. The 28-year-old is now self-isolating in line with government guidance, and the club is taking sensible precautions at Staplewood Campus whilst offering Stuart our full support.”
Scotland boss Steve Clarke said: “While this is obviously disappointing news the most important thing is the health and safety of the individuals involved and the wider group. As soon as we were informed of the positive test, the Chief Medical Consultant immediately contacted the Scottish Government’s clinical adviser, who in turn alerted the local Health Protection Team. We have informed the respective clubs from whom we have borrowed the players and backroom staff and we now have to prepare for a huge match ahead tomorrow.”
Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell added: “We were made aware of the positive test this morning and I reiterate Steve’s view that the health and safety of those involved is paramount. We will maintain constant dialogue with Dr John MacLean to ensure that those who are required to self-isolate are given the full support of the Scottish FA in conjunction with their clubs and employers. Equally, the protocols and procedures in place are designed to ensure that the remaining members of the squad – who have all returned two rounds of negative tests – can continue to prepare for the forthcoming matches in a safe and secure environment.”
