Jordan Pickford has dismissed suggestions that he removed himself from self-isolation to attend a charity boxing event.
Earlier this week, Everton announced that one of their players had shown symptoms of coronavirus, leading to the Toffees instructing members of their squad to stay away from the training ground.
However, Pickford was seen at a boxing event in the North-East, leading to suggestions that he had broken protocol regarding isolation.
Having taken to social media to deny the claims, the goalkeeper said: "Contrary to reports in some newspapers I am not in self-isolation.
"Last night I attended a boxing event with my family. Recently, my local boxing event had a fire, in conjunction with one of my sponsors we helped the club to get back on its feet by helping out.
"There are many young grassroots boxers training here and it helps the local community. I had made a commitment to them that I would attend the event and prior to going, I spoke to our club doctor to ensure I was okay to attend."
Everton are not scheduled to return to action until April 4 at the earliest.
Darren Plant
