Leeds United's fellow promotion chasers Nottingham Forest confirm owner has coronavirus, club seeking expert advice

The owner of one of Leeds United's fellow promotion chasers has revealed he has been 'visited' by coronavirus.
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Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis, who attended their home defeat by Millwall last Friday, posted on Instagram to say he was heeding medical advice.

"The recent virus has 'visited' me and I feel obliged to let the public know," he posted.

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"I feel good as I take all the necessary measures and I discipline to the doctors' instructions. I strongly advice [sic] all my fellow citizens to do the same.

"I wish all a quick recovery."

Forest have released a statement confirming that his symptoms had not presented themselves while he was in Nottingham last week.

"Mr Marinakis was diagnosed after showing the first symptoms on his return to Greece yesterday afternoon," said a spokesperson.

"During his short stay in Nottingham last week he did not show any symptoms of the virus.

Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has revealed he has been 'visited' by coronavirus (Pic: Getty)Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has revealed he has been 'visited' by coronavirus (Pic: Getty)
Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has revealed he has been 'visited' by coronavirus (Pic: Getty)
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"The club are seeking advice from medical professionals and the relevant governing bodies to ensure the correct measures are taken."

The EFL are reportedly in talks with Forest about their response to the news and Millwall say they are seeking medical advice and guidance, while taking all necessary precautions.

Marinakis also owns Olympiacos, who are due to take on Premier League side Wolves behind closed doors in the Europa League on Thursday.

Games in other European countries have been postponed or played behind closed doors, but the English football fixture list is yet to be disrupted by the spread of the virus, which to date has killed six people in the UK.

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England's deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries has said that cancelling large outdoor events like football matches might not be a decision supported by science.

"The virus will not survive very long outside," she said. "Many outdoor events, particularly, are relatively safe."

Leeds United have taken steps to battle against the outbreak, announcing that the women's and academy teams will train away from Thorp Arch until further notice and non essential visitors will not be permitted to enter the facility.

United released a statement before Saturday's 2-0 Elland Road win over Huddersfield Town, issuing fan advice and confirming they would be limiting interaction between players and supporters.

The pre-game handshake between the two sides did not take place.

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