Nottingham Forest Owner Evangelos Marinakis Confirms He Has Coronavirus

Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has taken to social media to announce that he has contracted Coronavirus, which could have a knock on effect on football.

Marinakis, who also owns Olympiakos, was at Forest's game last Friday night against Millwall, which they lost 3-0, and is believed to have met the players.

The 52-year-old confirmed that he'd been tested positive for the virus on social media. In an Instagram post he said, "The recent virus has visited me and I felt obliged to let the public know.

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

"I wish all a quick recovery."

According to reports the whole Olympiakos squad, as well as backroom staff, have also gone to hospital to be tested for the virus.

That news puts their Europa League match against Wolves this weekend under serious threat of not happening, with the match already due to be played behind closed doors because of the spread of Coronavirus throughout Europe.

Because the owner was so recently in attendance at a Forest game, and met players and staff, it's likely the Championship club employees will also have to be tested.

The two times European cup winners are currently trying to fight for promotion to the top tier, and the loss to Millwall was a blow to their chances to making it into the play-offs.

Despite the loss they remain in sixth place, four points ahead of Preston North End who are chasing them for a place in the play-offs.

Marinakis celebrates during Olympiakos win against Arsenal. Image: PA Images

Earlier on Tuesday there were reports that UEFA are considering suspending both the Champions League and Europa League after the last 16 due to the spread of the virus.

Games in Italy, Spain and France are already being played behind closed doors although there is currently no plans for England to follow suit.

Six Nations matches have been postponed, as has the Chinese F1 race and the Indian Wells tennis tournament was also cancelled.

Topics: Greece, Europa League, Nottingham Forest, UEFA, Coronavirus, Wolves, championship

Ryan Sidle

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