TWO Bolton Wanderers players will go into self-isolation pending the results of a COVID-19 test, The Bolton News understands.

Callum King-Harmes and George Thomason, who have been on loan at Northern Premier League side Bamber Bridge, will now have to follow EFL protocols before returning to action.

Bamber Bridge confirmed this morning that one member of their football staff has tested positive for coronavirus, forcing the club to pull out of the FA Cup, where they were due to play Atherton Colls tomorrow night.

Wanderers have been made aware that the two young players – who featured for the non-league side at the weekend in their victory against Matlock Town – are at risk.

Neither player has reported to the club’s Lostock training ground since the weekend and the Whites will wait for test results to return before deciding their next step.

Wanderers have already had Sonny Graham go into self-isolation in similar circumstances last month after he played a trial game at Atherton Colls shortly before several staff tested positive with the virus.

Colls – who will be given a bye into the next round of the FA Cup - this morning praised Bamber Bridge for their prompt contact and released the following statement.

“This morning we received notification from Bamber Bridge that they have had a positive case of COVID-19 at the club. As such tomorrow evening’s FA Cup game has been cancelled and Bamber Bridge have withdrawn from the competition. We are awaiting news from the FA with regards to our own next steps in the competition.

“Everybody at the club wishes Bamber Bridge well in their recovery and thanks them for their clear communication throughout.”

Bamber Bridge say the person in question has not exhibited any symptoms but will be required to follow the guidelines laid down by the Football Association.

“This morning, the club received the news that one of our first team playing squad has received a positive Covid-19 test result from a test which was taken on 20 September 2020,” a statement read.

“In line with government and FA guidance all football activity will now be ceased at the club for the next 14 days. This includes all training and competitive matches. In line with FA requirements the club have also now withdrawn from this year’s FA cup.

“The club and the individual involved are following all the necessary requirements in relation to track and trace.

“The player affected is fully fit and has not displayed any symptoms, however in line with government requirements he is now required to self-isolate for 10 days. We wish him and his family a return to normality as soon as possible.

“Bamber Bridge FC have significant procedures to ensure the safety of all players, staff and visitors to the club and to minimise the risk of transmission. Full details of all risk assessments are available here.

“We would like to remind everyone that anyone who is displaying symptoms of Covid-19 they should self-isolate and obtain a Covid-19 test immediately. Also, everyone should follow the government and NHS guidance in relation to good hand hygiene, wearing of face coverings and practising social distancing. Please take all the necessary precautions to take keep yourself, your family and your community safe.

“The club are continuing to monitor the situation and further information will be issued as appropriate.”