HULL FC owner Adam Pearson believes a player's visit to hospital with a poorly baby is the likely cause of the infection at the Super League Club.

Pearson told BBC Radio Humberside that the player attended the club the next day, Saturday, for some physio treatment and was sent home having shown some symptoms.

Five Hull FC players who were involved in the match against Salford Red Devils at Headingley on Sunday have since tested positive, in addition to a sixth who was not in their matchday 17 – while a sixth member of Sunday’s 17 is having a retest after an inconclusive result.

Two members of Hull’s coaching staff have also tested positive.

All who test positive are now required to quarantine for 10 days - until August 21 – in line with national guidance.

Pearson, who is diabetic and is himself awaiting a test result, said Hull FC will 'definitely not be playing this weekend or the weekend after'.

They are due to face Castleford Tigers on both occasions, at St Helens' Totally Wicked Stadium in Super League on Sunday and then at Huddersfield's John Smith's Stadium in the Challenge Cup sixth round on Saturday, August 22.

There are also unconfirmed reports that 11 players from Sunday's opponents Salford are now required to self-isolate for 14 days.

This weekend's fixtures could be amended as a result.

Pearson told BBC Radio Humberside: "It appears one of the players' children, a new-born baby, has required hospital treatment and that player has gone to hospital.

"I think subsequently some members of his family could have been infected. The baby wasn't well.

"He's then come in on Saturday for some treatment, with symptoms, been sent home. He was about to do a rehab session but was sent home and I think it's probably gone from there - into the physio and then into the players, probably Saturday/Sunday morning.

"That's not a scientific answer, it's where I'm looking at the moment as the most likely cause."

Asked about those who have returned positive tests, Pearson said: "Some are showing very little symptoms, some are now starting to develop some form of symptoms.

"Luckily they're young and fit and I'm sure they'll come through but obviously it's a difficult world at the minute.

"We've locked down and going through track and trace to make sure it doesn't spread further, that's the most important thing.

"They're fit, young boys so I think they' be fine but you worry about the family in and around them."

Further announcements from the sport's organisers are expected this afternoon.

It is possible this weekend's fixtures, all being played at Saints' home, could be altered.