Mark Catlin reveals testing kit frustrations hindering Portsmouth players' coronavirus all clear

Pompey’s players are currently not in training as they await to enter the process of discovering whether they are clear of the infection.

Once tested, there is then a 48-hour wait to learn the outcome of results.

The Blues are to assess all players and backroom staff, with the cost of purchasing sufficient numbers of kits estimated to be around £6,000.

Catlin has spoken of the difficulty getting their hands on kits in the current climate, with rocketing demands and restricted supply.

And while Pompey have succeeded in locating them, he admits it had been a tough process.

The Blues’ chief executive said: ‘It is very, very difficult to obtain the testing kits at the moment and then to get the testing procedure in.

‘It’s not a chemistry kit, it has to be sent away to be tested, taking approximately 48 hours to get the results back.

‘We know plenty of clubs who are struggling to get kits, it’s not as easy as just buying them, trust me.

‘You have to go around various companies, but it’s the whole testing regime, it’s really difficult and costs around £6,000 to test the team.

‘We shall be testing all players and backroom staff, plus anyone who has come into contact with the first-team.

‘We are also allowing office staff to work from home if they feel the need.’

Pompey’s players will not resume training until they receive the green light, with results expected before the week is out.