Mariappa: I’m baffled how I caught virus

WATFORD defender Adrian Mariappa is one of the three Hornets staff to have tested positive for coronavirus but insists he has no idea how he caught it.

The 33-year-old was one of six positive results from the first round of Premier League testing this week as the top flight takes steps towards a resumption.

Along with two other members of Watford’s staff, Burnley assistant manager Ian Woan also tested positive.

Mariappa said: “Ever since I got my positive result back on Tuesday, I’ve been scratching my head to try to work out how I might have got coronavirus.

“It was a big surprise because I haven’t really left the house, apart from some exercise and the odd walk with the kids. I’ve mainly just been homeschooling and keeping fit.

“The club doctor called to tell me and, to be honest, I did ask whether it could be 100 per cent accurate or whether my results could have got muddled up. Maybe if I had been displaying any symptoms then it might have made sense. But in my head it wasn’t adding up.

“I’ve not had any symptoms and I’ve felt as fit as ever.”

The Jamaica international was disappointed the results ended up revealing his identity.

“I’d have preferred if everything had been kept private,” said Mariappa.

“But once Watford’s name came out then my phone went mad with people asking who it was and I’m sure it was the same for all of the rest of the staff and players.

“For your family, you’d rather keep it to yourself.’’