Bristol City close training ground following ‘a number’ of positive coronavirus tests

The Robins have closed their Failand base while another round of testing takes place

(Getty Images)

Bristol City have shut their training ground after an outbreak of coronavirus at the Championship club last week.

The Robins closed their Failand base following "a number" of positive cases and it will not reopen until Thursday, when another round of tests will take place.

That gives Dean Holden's side precious little time to prepare for Saturday's Championship game against Derby.

A statement from the Robins read: "Over the weekend of Saturday 7 November and Sunday 8 November, several individuals within the Bristol City testing bubble of players and staff displayed Covid-19 symptoms.

"The whole Bristol City testing bubble were subsequently tested, and a number of positive tests were recorded from players and staff.

"Those individuals who tested positive are currently in the 10-day self-isolation period as per Public Health England and EFL updated medical guidance and information, October 2020.

"In consultation with the EFL medical advisors, the club's Failand training ground is closed until Thursday, November 19th.

“There will be another round of testing ahead of training resuming on Thursday, in preparation for the Sky Bet Championship match against Derby County on Saturday 21 November.”

The Robins are fifth in the table and would have been favourites against bottom club Derby, who look set to be under the guidance of an interim coaching team including captain Wayne Rooney following the weekend dismissal of Phillip Cocu.

PA