Liverpool Midfielder Thiago Tests Positive for COVID-19

Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara has tested positive for coronavirus, the Premier League club confirmed.

The Spain international missed Liverpool’s 3-1 victory over Arsenal and was reported to be experiencing only minor symptoms.

Liverpool said Thiago remained in good health and was continuing to recover while self-isolating in line with health guidelines.

First-team doctor Jim Moxon said the club had followed the required protocols and expressed hope that the midfielder would return soon.

“We have followed all the protocols to the letter and Thiago is OK,” Moxon said. “He will be self-isolating now as per the guidelines and hopefully he’ll be back with us soon.”

Thiago had only recently joined Liverpool from Bayern Munich after helping the German champions win the treble.

He made an impressive Premier League debut in Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, coming on as a half-time substitute and completing 75 passes.

The positive test was expected to rule Thiago out of Liverpool’s EFL Cup tie against Arsenal and the Premier League match against Aston Villa.

His availability for Spain’s upcoming international fixtures was also placed in doubt.

Liverpool were due to return to league action after the international break with a Merseyside derby against Everton on October 17.