Newcastle United have shut down their training ground temporarily due to an outbreak of COVID-19.

The Magpies have learned that several first team players and backroom staff members tested positive for the virus.

That is according to Chronicle Live.

Their training facility was shut on Monday, and it is unclear if the team will be ready for its Premier League clash with Aston Villa on Friday.

Anyone who is positive must isolate for ten days, and others will be tested repeatedly to ensure the spread has not gone further.

It appears the training ground may not open until Thursday, which would give the team very little time to prepare for its game against Villa.