JUST IN: Bundesliga Resumption Suffers Setback As Covid-19 Strikes FC Cologne

The hope to resume the German Bundesliga has suffered a hit as three new cases has been discovered in the camp of FC Cologne.

The German league confirmed on Thursday that clubs had started testing players for the virus as part of plans to get the season up and running again. It has been suspended since March 13.

Cologne, who are in the 10th position in the Bundesliga, have had three of its members test positive for coronavirus and will now be placed on a 14-day isolation.

In a statement released on the club's official website, it was stated that the entire team and coaching staff as well as the backroom staff had the Corona test and three asymptomatic people have returned positive.

"After an assessment of the cases by the responsible health authorities, the three people who tested positive will go into a 14-day quarantine at home.

"Cologne will not confirm any names out of respect for the privacy of those affected."

The club further said it would continue to train in preparation for the Bundesliga campaign to resume, with further tests to be carried out as part of the league's health and safety protocol.

"We now see in everyday life that our concept recognises and reduces risks at an early stage," said Tim Meyer, head of the German league's medical task force.

"We are convinced that with our concept, we can enable players to practice their profession with the best possible protection against infection."

The Bundesliga had set a target return date of May 9 but still need permission from the German government.

A delay on the decision this week meant a resumption would not be possible before May 16. A final decision is expected next Wednesday.