Coronavirus fears intensify after NI footballer tests positive for COVID-19

The footballer was one of three people to test positive for COVID-19 in Northern Ireland on Saturday - taking the total to seven cases.

It is not known which football club the man plays for but according to Coagh United FC in Co. Tyrone, he played against their reserves team on Saturday.

Coagh United FC has informed anyone involved in the game to be alert to developing symptoms consistent with COVID-19.

“Today [Saturday], a player from a visiting club played against our reserves team at Coagh Sports Centre,” said the club.

“At 7pm we were informed that a player from this visiting team had tested positive for coronavirus.

“This has been confirmed.”

The club urged anyone who may start to feel unwell to contact healthcare authorities immediately.

“We have taken advice from the NHS and from the Mid Ulster Football League.

“Anyone that was playing in the reserves match today must monitor themselves for the next 24 hours.

“If they feel that they have any symptoms of the coronavirus, they should get tested immediately.”

The club added: “If anyone has been in the social club this evening for our darts competition, the advice is that you are at very low risk.

“However should you feel any symptoms over the next 24 hours, you should get tested.

“We are sincerely sorry for this; this is something that is completely beyond our control.

“We will keep you updated with all information,” added the club.

As of 7.00am on Saturday, 206 people had tested positive for COVID-19 in the United Kingdom - two people have died as a result of the illness.

Latest figures for the Republic of Ireland have the total number of cases of COVID-19 TO 19.