Modric returns negative result in second covid-19 test

Great news for Real Madrid, who seem to have the recent covid-19 outbreak under control. There have been no more positive results after the last round of PCR tests and Luka Modric tested negative in his latest test, which means that he should be able to return to training soon. Alarm bells sounded at the club on Thursday when first team players Lunin, Asensio, Rodrygo and Bale, along with assistant coach Davide Ancelotti all tested positive for covid-19. All of them had been working in Valdebebas on Wednesday. For now, the PCR tests among the rest of the squad have come back negative. The club has stepped up an already rigourous protocol to protect players and staff from the virus - social distancing and hygiene measures designed to  protect players and staff in Valdebebas. Anyone who tests positive is immediately isolated.

Modric boost

The positive news is that it looks like Modric will be able to return sooner than anticipated. He has returned a negative PCR test and now must undergo a serological test. There is a chance that the midfielder will be able to return to training tomorrow even though 10 days haven't passed since his positive result. Modric won't be able to return to work until the results of the serological test are known. He will also need to have a cardiological revision - supervisied by Niko Mihic, the head of medical services at Real Madrid. Modric will have his heart monitored to see if he has suffered any damage after returning a positive covid-19 test.

Modric didn't take part in Friday's session, but if his serological test and heart examination satisfy medical staff he might be able to rejoin the squad for tomorrow's session in Valdebebas. Whether Ancelotti decides to include Modric in his squad list for Sunday's game against Cádiz is another matter. The coach could decide to rest him and keep him in reserve for the league meeting with Athletic Club at San Mamés on 22 December.

For the time being, Marcelo, Asensio, Rodrygo, Bale and Lunin (the only member of the Madrid squad who has tested positive twice), all remain in quarantine. All of them have received both doses of the vaccine. Club officials hope that all of them overcome the virus without any problems so that they can resume first team duties. It is hoped that all should be back for the trip to Bilbao.