Carlisle United’s next three Sky Bet League Two fixtures against Mansfield Town (Saturday 16 January), Leyton Orient (Tuesday 19 January) and Forest Green Rovers (Saturday 23 January) have been suspended.
The club informed the EFL that they would be unable to fulfil the fixtures following recent positive COVID-19 tests and the requirement for players and staff to self-isolate as per EFL and Government guidance in order to mitigate against the risk of further infection.
The circumstances surrounding the postponements will now be the subject of an investigation in accordance with EFL Regulations.
Revised dates for the rearranged fixtures will be confirmed in due course.
Chief executive Nigel Clibbens said: “We can confirm that a number of our football players have returned positive results for COVID-19.
"The cases come from tests conducted earlier this week, before the Harrogate fixture, and also arising this morning following the latest round of testing, ahead of the next game.
"All players who have tested positive and others affected from close contact are now in a period of isolation in line with EFL and Government requirements.
"The position has deteriorated quickly this week and, after consulting with the EFL medical team this morning, it was decided that, following this outbreak, the way forward is to cease all football activities immediately.
"The club’s football training activities will now close, and will only reopen when it is safe to resume. The safety of our players and staff is paramount, as well as their families and other participants in our upcoming games.
"The club would like to wish all our players who have returned a positive test a safe and speedy recovery."
The club will be making no further comment at this point.
