Former Portsmouth boss Michael Appleton tests positive for Covid-19 but Lincoln's game at Wimbledon to go ahead

But the league leaders’ game at AFC Wimbledon on Saturday will take place as scheduled, with the Imps manager and his goalkeeping coach, Steve Croudson, the only two to return positive test results amid the Sincil Bank club’s first-team set-up.

Both will now self-isolate as per government guidelines, but Appleton will remain in contact with the team throughout tomorrow’s match at Plough Lane.

Lincoln sit three points above the second-placed Blues in the League One table, with both teams due to go head-to-head for the second time this season on January 26 at Fratton Park.

Pompey could regain top spot with victory at Accrington on Saturday and if the Imps slip up at the Dons.

However, with a pitch inspection taking place at Accy’s Wham Stadium at 1.30pm today, the Blues’ next fixture is in serious doubt.

Pompey have not played since going top with a win at Hull on December 18.

Their festive period games against Swindon and Bristol Rovers were postponed because of Covid-19 incident within their own camp.

In total, 12 League One games had to be cancelled in the period between December 26-29 as club’s in the third tier struggled with coronavirus outbreaks.

This weekend, four games have already been called off – promoting Blues boss Kenny Jackett to call for an extension to the current season in a bid to avoid fixture congestion.

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