Socceroos coach Graham Arnold has apologised after he was caught breaching COVID isolation rules in New South Wales.
Arnold tested positive to the virus last Thursday, and under current state rules the 58-year-old was meant to be isolating at home.
However, 2GB host Ray Hadley claimed Arnold had been seen at North Narrabeen with his wife, walking unmasked on the beach.
“I have been able to confirm the current coach of the Socceroos, Graham Arnold, broke a virus isolation order yesterday and was seen walking his dog at North Narrabeen Ocean Pool, at 12:30,” Hadley said.
“He was unmasked in the company of a woman I believe to be his wife or partner.”
Football Australia has confirmed the breach, and fined the coach $25,000.
“I sincerely apologise for my error of judgement on Sunday,” Arnold said.
“I accept that I should not have left my home as per the New South Wales self-isolation protocols and will remain at my property until my self-isolation window concludes. I also accept the sanctions that come because of this error.”
The $25,000 fine will be donated to the Red Cross flood relief fund.
Arnold will need to return an additional negative result following the conclusion of his self-isolation period to be able to re-join the Socceroos camp for its upcoming game against Japan on Thursday night.
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