Liverpool midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri tests negative for Covid-19 after initial positive test, Swiss FA confirm

Liverpool midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri has been cleared to stay with the Switzerland squad for their upcoming internationals after his most recent Covid-19 test returned a negative result.

The Swiss FA announced on Tuesday that the 28-year-old had tested positive for coronavirus after linking up with his countrymen for games against Croatia, Spain and Germany.

However, it has now emerged that a secondary test showed Shaqiri to be clear of the virus, allowing him to remain with the squad for their two upcoming Nations League fixtures.

A statement read: "On Thursday morning (October 8, 2020) the Swiss Football Association received the written results of the Covid-19 tests of the A national team, which had also been carried out the day before with all players and staff members.

"Only Manuel Akanji tested positive. All other results were negative, including that of Xherdan Shaqiri.

"After Xherdan Shaqiri's negative Covid-19 test, the UEFA health committee must now decide on eligibility to play on Saturday. Until when this decision will be made is still unclear. Shaqiri is flying to Spain as planned."

Shaqiri had been thought to represent the third case of coronavirus among the Liverpool squad in recent weeks after Thiago Alcantara and Sadio Mane both missed games following positive tests.

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