Aubameyang to return to Arsenal for tests

The Gabonese Football Federation (FEGAFOOT) said on Monday the tests were conducted in Cameroon where the pair hoped to play in the African Cup of Nations.

The two were released from quarantine last week but were then stopped from playing in Friday's game against Ghana after doctors said the cardiac lesions were detected in post-COVID medical examinations.

They did not train on Sunday and Monday as they awaited results of further examinations and FEGAFOOT has now said they will go back to Europe for further examination.

The pair tested positive on arrival with their team for the tournament and missed their country's opening two games. It is not clear if they might return for next week's knock-out stage.

Both later took to social media to dismiss accusations they had been sent home for indiscipline.

Aubameyang tweeted: "We have problems that are already complicated to solve, then on top of that there are rumours.

"In short, we have health to take care of first and foremost. I won't go back on these false rumours and I sincerely hope that our team will go as far as possible."

Lemina said on his Instagram Stories: "I'm not even going to feed lies that seek to harm. I have nothing to do (with it)."

Gabon also said they had suffered fresh infections, including winger Denis Bouanga, substitute goalkeeper Noubi Fotso, left back David Sambissa, midfielder Serge Ngouali and striker Ulrick Eneme Ella. They are all now isolating.

Bouanga, Eneme Ella and Ngouali all featured in the 1-1 draw with Ghana in Yaounde, which lifted Gabon to four points and likely qualification for the last 16.

But defenders Gilchrist Nguema, Sidney Obissa and Lloyd Palun, plus forwards Axel Meye and Kevin Mayi have returned without concerns after COVID-19 isolation and can play on Tuesday against Morocco in Gabon's last Group C game in Yaounde.

Australian Associated Press