Arsenal defender Gabriel tests positive for coronavirus and will miss Brighton and West Brom matches

Arsenal defender Gabriel has been ruled out for at least two matches after testing positive for coronavirus.

The Gunners revealed on Boxing Day that the Brazil star was self-isolating after a close contact tested positive for the disease, missing the 3-1 home victory over Chelsea.

The 23-year-old will now sit out his side’s meetings with Brighton on Tuesday and West Brom on Saturday having contracted Covid-19.

Gabriel has been ruled out for at least two matches after returning a positive coronavirus test

The defender had moved into self-isolation on Boxing Day after a close contact tested positive

An official club statement said: ‘Gabriel has tested positive for Covid-19 and is isolating according to UK Government and Premier League protocols.

‘We will continue to monitor and support Gabriel, and we are hoping he will be available again after our next two matches.’

Gabriel’s diagnosis was announced late on Monday, after Manchester City’s visit to Everton had been called off because of an outbreak among City’s squad and playing staff. 

The news will frustrate Gunners boss Mikel Arteta, who tested positive himself in early March

Several Football League matches were called off on the same day as clubs across the country were hit by new positive tests.

Two of Gabriel’s countrymen at Arsenal, David Luiz and Willian, both missed the victory over Chelsea through illness but tested negative for coronavirus. 

The pair will miss the trip to Brighton but are expected to return to training on Thursday.