An executive director at Newcastle Falcons is in hospital after struggling with his breathing and has praised NHS staff for their care.
Mick Hogan was put on oxygen at the Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital, in Cramlington, over the weekend and remained there on Sunday.
He was awaiting test results to see if he had contracted coronavirus or not, however he said he was feeling better.
On Saturday, he posted a message on Twitter, saying: "Thanks for all the good wishes everyone. I’m currently on oxygen at Cramlington hospital after struggling with my breathing yesterday.
"NHS staff have been incredible and the care I’ve received has been out of this world."
He told ChronicleLive on Sunday: "I’m feeling a lot better thanks and the care I’ve received has been absolutely first class.
"From coming in on, I’ve been so well looked after and I want to thank every single member of our NHS staff, the volunteers and support workers for what they are doing. Looking forward to returning home soon."
Scores of people have been wishing Mr Hogan a speedy recovery, with a string of messages appearing on social media telling him to 'get well soon'.
This week Newcastle Falcons released a statement explaining that all areas of Kingston Park Stadium were to remain closed until further notice in line with Government guidance.
The club further said: "Newcastle Rugby Ltd, which includes Newcastle Thunder, Newcastle Falcons and its associated charity, Newcastle Rugby Foundation, is working with all staff to put together a plan aimed at ensuring long-term job retention and the ongoing stability of the business.
"This plan will incorporate Government help via the furloughed worker scheme for some staff members, and salary reductions.
"This is to ensure that we are in a strong position to move forwards when rugby resumes. We thank our staff members for their understanding during this difficult period."
