NEWCASTLE goalkeeper Karl Darlow has returned a positive test for COVID-19 following routine testing within the training. 

The 30-year-old will now be out of action for at least 10 days whilst serving a period a self isolation. 

Fellow goalkeepers Freddie Woodman and Mark Gillespie have also been identified as close contacts and will also have serve a period of self isolation despite returning negative tests. 

The positive test means that the Magpies have had to move things around for their pre-season friendlies against York City and Harrogate Town on Sunday. 

A first-team squad will now travel to the LNER Community Stadium to face the Minstermen while an Under 23's squad will head to Harrogate. 

With Martin Dubravka also sidelined due to a foot injury, Newcastle are now desperately short of options in goal.