Carlisle United’s next three league games have been suspended after "a number" of positive Covid-19 tests in the Blues squad.

This Saturday's trip to Mansfield is off, along with next Tuesday's home game against Leyton Orient and the following Saturday's home game against Forest Green.

The Blues, who were already set to be without four players this weekend after positive tests, said the situation regarding infections at Brunton Park had "deteriorated" further today after the latest round of testing.

The League Two leaders have now informed the EFL they will be unable to fulfil their next three games because of the need for players and staff to self-isolate in line with EFL and Government guidance.

Chief executive Nigel Clibbens said in a statement: “We can confirm that a number of our football players have returned positive results for Covid-19.

"The cases come from tests conducted earlier this week, before the Harrogate fixture [which was postponed on Tuesday night because of a power cut], and also arising this morning following the latest round of testing, ahead of the next game.

"All players who have tested positive and others affected from close contact are now in a period of isolation in line with EFL and Government requirements.

"The position has deteriorated quickly this week and, after consulting with the EFL medical team this morning, it was decided that, following this outbreak, the way forward is to cease all football activities immediately.

"The club’s football training activities will now close, and will only reopen when it is safe to resume. The safety of our players and staff is paramount, as well as their families and other participants in our upcoming games.

"The club would like to wish all our players who have returned a positive test a safe and speedy recovery."

United say they will make no further comment at this point, and dates for the rearranged games will be confirmed in due course.

The postponements - which will be the subject of investigation in accordance with EFL rules - mean the Blues will face an inevitable spell of fixture congestion unless the campaign is extended.

United's trip to Harrogate has also yet to be rearranged a second time. The Cumbrians' next game is now due to be the trip to Newport on Tyesday, January 26.