Arsenal's defender Gabriel Magalhaes tests positive for coronavirus

Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes will miss his side’s upcoming matches against Brighton and West Brom after he tested positive for coronavirus.

Gabriel was asked to self-isolate after he was flagged as a close contact of someone who had tested positive for the virus in an announcement on Boxing Day and as a result, he missed the 3-1 victory over Chelsea, and news of his positive test means he will be absent for the trips to Brighton and West Brom on Tuesday and Saturday respectively.

A statement on Arsenal’s website said: “Gabriel has tested positive for Covid-19 and is isolating according to UK Government and Premier League protocols.

“We will continue to monitor and support Gabriel, and we are hoping he will be available again after our next two matches.”

Gabriel’s compatriots David Luiz and Willian also missed the Chelsea game through illness, but the club clarified the pair had tested negative for Covid-19 and were due to rejoin the full squad on New Year’s Eve.

Thomas Partey also remains out with a thigh injury.