Fellaini first Chinese Super League player to test positive for coronavirus

Shandong Luneng's Belgian midfielder Marouane Fellaini was on Sunday announced as the first Chinese Super League player to test positive for the virus.

The 32-year-old former Manchester United star has a normal temperature and is feeling fine, Luneng said, but "is under observation and having treatment at a designated medical facility".

"The club will do its best... to help in the treatment and recovery of the player," Luneng added.

Fellaini is just the latest high-profile name in soccer to catch the disease, joining the likes of Juventus forward Paulo Dybala, Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi and Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.

But he is the first confirmed case in the CSL, dealing a major blow to the league's hopes of starting the season as early as next month.

Spain-based China international Wu Lei confirmed he has tested positive for coronavirus on Saturday, but says he is on his way to making a full recovery.

The Chinese Football Association announced on Saturday that Wu, who plays for Espanyol in La Liga, had contracted the coronavirus and the 28-year-old confirmed he is now self-isolating.

“As you all know, I indeed have tested positive for the novel coronavirus, and I'm self-quarantined at home,” said Wu in a Weibo post. “I'm in great condition now and all the symptoms have basically gone.

“I have run a series of tests on my lungs, including a CT scan, and the result turned out to be good. I really want to thank you all for your support and blessings.

“In the meantime, I hope all of you can pay special attention to the coronavirus. We still haven't completely beat the virus.

“Keep washing your hands and stay indoors. I believe we can win the battle against the coronavirus eventually. And I can't wait to return to the pitch.”

On Friday, the Chinese Fencing Association revealed that three of its athletes, who had been competing in Europe, were infected. It was the first time that confirmed cases were reported from a Chinese national team.