JAMIE Vermiglio has confirmed a member of staff at Chorley FC was taken ill on the way to Bromley with coronavirus-like symptoms on Saturday but refused to say if it was one of his players.

The Magpies boss said the Chorley team bus was around two hours from London for the National League clash when someone fell ill on board.

In a statement on social media, the club said: “Due to one of our staff members being taken ill en-route to Bromley FC, today’s game has been called off in the best interests of everyone involved.”

Bromley also released a statement suggesting it was a player but that could not be confirmed.

The statement said: “Bromley Football Club can confirm that today’s fixture against Chorley has been postponed.

“Having received communication from Chorley a short while ago, we have been informed that one of their players has shown symptoms of Covid-19. Therefore, it is only right that this game is postponed.

“The club has a duty of care to all of our players, staff and supporters. The safety and welfare of these individuals is paramount.”

A number of Chorley fans had already arrived at Hayes Lane before the game was called off.

Meanwhile, the Magpies have announced they have come to a mutual agreement with Matt Challoner over the release of the right back from his contract so he can join Boston United.

The former Southport man appeared in 37 games for the Magpies this season, with his final match coming against Barnet last month.

Vermiglio said: “Boston are going for promotion in National League North and they made an inquiry about Matt which we put to him and he decided he wanted to give it a go.

“Chally’s been an important member of the team for a number of years and has made some fantastic contributions.

“We’d like to thank him for everything he has done for the club and wish him all the best for the future.”

The 26-year-old leaves Victory Park after just shy of four years service, having made 180 appearances while scoring four goals.