Celtic player tests positive as Dubai travellers ordered to isolate

Dubai is added to Scotland's travel quarantine list

Author: Rob WallerPublished 11th Jan 2021
Last updated 11th Jan 2021

Celtic are facing more questions about their controversial Dubai training camp after one of their players tested positive for coronavirus. It's not yet known if they were away with the squad.

It comes as Dubai is added to Scotland's travel quarantine list with travellers returning from the country told to self-isolate for 10 days.

The rule came into effect at 4am on Monday and will also apply retrospectively to passengers who have travelled to Scotland from Dubai since January 3.

They will have to self-isolate for 10 days dating from when they arrived back to Scotland, but Celtic's players won't need to isolate because elite athletes are exempt from the quarantine rules under travel exemptions put in place to facilitate international competition.

A Scottish Government statement said: "We are aware there has been a positive case of coronavirus within Celtic FC.

"Scottish Government clinicians and GGC Health Protection Team are in conract with Celtic providing advice on the next steps."

Dubai cases rise

The Scottish Government said the change is due to a number of positive cases identified in passengers who have flown into Glasgow from Dubai since the new year.

It said the "preventative action'' will help stem the rise in coronavirus cases.

Transport Secretary Michael Matheson said: "It is evident, both in Scotland and in countries across the world, that the virus continues to pose real risks to health and to life and we need to interrupt the rise in cases.

"Imposing quarantine requirements on those arriving in the UK is our first defence in managing the risk of imported cases from communities with high risks of transmission. That is why we have made the decision to remove Dubai from the country exemptions list.

"Whether or not an overseas destination has been designated for quarantine restrictions, our message remains clear that people should not currently be undertaking non-essential foreign travel.

"People need to stay at home to help suppress the virus, protect our NHS and save lives.''

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