Liverpool forward Xherdan Shaqiri has tested positive for Covid-19 after reporting for international duty.
The 28-year-old is self-isolating following the results of a routine test and will miss all three of Switzerland’s scheduled games this week.
A statement on the Swiss FA’s website read: “Xherdan Shaqiri has tested positive for Covid-19. In consultation with the health authorities, he is in isolation.
“The strict protective measures and requirements of UEFA for national teams in accordance with the “UEFA Return to Play Protocol” have been strictly adhered to.
“Based on this, clarifications are currently underway with the local health authorities about how to proceed.”
Injuries had kept Shaqiri out of the Switzerland squad for over a year prior to his latest call-up, but hopes of a triumphant return have now been dashed.
The news also provides a significant headache for Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, whose squad has recently been hit by a string of coronavirus cases.
Thiago Alcantara and Sadio Mane both missed the weekend visit to Aston Villa having tested positive for Covid-19.
Summer signing Kostas Tsimikas also missed a period of pre-season following a reported positive test with the Greece national team.
With a significant number of Klopp’s squad jetting across the world during the international break, there will be concerns over the possibility of further cases arising.
