Warnock returns a positive CV19 test

MIDDLESBROUGH have confirmed that their former Plymouth Argyle manager Neil Warnock has tested positive for COVID-19, writes Chris Errington.

The 71-year-old is reported by the Championship club to be ‘in good spirits’ and will be spending a period in isolation, in accordance with guidelines.

Warnock brought his Middlesbrough squad to Cornwall last month for a pre-season training camp.

During their stay, Boro played Argyle twice, beating them 1-0 at Home Park and then 3-1 in a game played over three 30-minute periods at the Harper’s Park training ground.

A statement from Middlesbrough this morning read: “The club can confirm that our manager Neil Warnock has returned a positive test for COVID-19 and will be spending a period in isolation in accordance with guidelines.

“Neil is in good spirits and we look forward to welcoming him back after his period in isolation.”

Warnock was appointed by Middlesbrough in June and led them to Championship safety with a record of four wins and four defeats from their last eight games of the 2019/20 campaign.

Boro began this season with a 4-3 home Carabao Cup first round win against Shrewsbury Town, before losing 1-0 away to Watford in their Championship opener.

Warnock then saw his side beaten 2-0 at home by Barnsley in the Carabao Cup second round.

Middlesbrough are next in action on Saturday when they host Bournemouth in the Championship at the Riverside Stadium.