Jets player first in A-League to test positive for coronavirus

A Newcastle Jets player has become the first in the A-League to test positive for the coronavirus, and has gone into self-isolation for two weeks in accordance with protocols issued by NSW Health.

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It’s understood the player - whose name cannot be released for privacy reasons - was asymptomatic, and only sought testing as a precaution before an intended overseas trip, according to a well placed source.

He remains asymptomatic and there are no immediate fears other members of the squad have been infected.

Authorities have determined that none of the affected player’s teammates are required to adopt any quarantine measures.

The Jets most recent opponents - Melbourne City five days ago and Brisbane Roar eight days ago - have been informed of developments by A-League chief Greg O’Rourke, who is closely monitoring the issue.

Sources close to the player in question say he featured in both those matches.

The news comes 24 hours after a member of the Wellington Phoenix coaching staff also tested positive for COVID-19.

He became symptomatic after returning to New Zealand with the Phoenix squad following the A-League’s official lockdown five days ago.

It’s unknown where and how either contracted the virus, though there are suggestions the Phoenix staff member might have become infected on the flight back from Sydney to Wellington, or during his stay in NSW.

The Phoenix squad had been in Australia - staying and training in isolation - in preparation to complete the remainder of the regular season based in NSW.

Their last match was the 3-0 home win over Melbourne Victory on March 15.

It’s likely that several Phoenix players may have undergone precautionary testing.

Both Jets CEO Lawrie McKinna and his Phoenix counterpart David Dome declined to comment when contacted by The World Game. O’Rourke also did not reply to calls.