MLS coronavirus crisis worsens as 18 players, six staff members test positive for COVID-19

USA is fast emerging as worst affected country in world when it comes to raging coronavirus pandemic. COVID-19 cases have touched 2.5 million mark in USA as of this week. w, Major League Soccer (MLS) has confirmed that 18 players and six staff members tested positive for COVID-19, in what is a big blow as plans of MLS restart start to take shape.

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MLS Coronavirus: 18 players contract COVID-19 ahead of MLS restart

An MLS coronavirus anuncement confirmed that 18 players, as well as six staff members, tested positive for COVID-19 in Orlando after arriving for MLS is Back Tournament. players have been isolated according to stipulated rms and will be provided professional care by relevant medical professionals until y receive medical clearance from concerned authorities, MLS said in a statement. 

MLS Coronavirus: MLS restart slated for July 8 amid coronavirus USA crisis

Under MLS restart plan, 668 players have been administered  polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests since June 4. MLS restart plan aims to resume competition from July 8, prior to which tests have been conducted on a massive scale. Since clubs have returned to training since suspension in March due to coronavirus USA crisis, players are expected to pass two PCR tests within a of 24 hours followed by two additional tests every day. 

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MLS coronavirus update: Players arrive at Orlando

Before departing for Orlando for MLS restart, all personnel attending tournament were expected to pass two PCR tests. Upon arrival, every person was tested again and put under mandatory quarantine until reports hinted at a negative result. According to reports in USA, as of w, 329 players and staff have arrived at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort in Orlando, of which 18 players tested positive for COVID-19. 

top league authority has confirmed that it will provide MLS coronavirus testing details on a regular basis. Meanwhile, some clubs have ensured transparency regarding health of ir players, although ors have declined to follow suit. On Sunday, Athletic reported that Orlando City had at least one player testing positive.

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MLS coronavirus: Commissioner confident ahead of MLS restart

Ahead of MLS restart, commissioner Don Garber has reportedly asserted that he remains confident of plan to resume competition safely despite MLS coronavirus threat. MLS restart is scheduled for July 8, with 26 teams participating in competition. A total of 54 matches will be played, ensuring regular-season points along with a spot in 2021 CONCACAF Champions League. 

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Im courtesy: MLS Twitter handle