Middlesbrough FC news: Former midfielder opens up on coronavirus impact after Champions League triumph

The 28-year-old, who spent one season at Boro during the 2016/17 campaign, has impressed for top-flight Italian side Atalanta this season, making 22 league appearances in Serie A.

De Roon has also helped Atalanta reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League after last week’s 4-3 win away in Valencia – a result which secured an 8-4 aggregate victory.

Three Valencia players and two members of staff have since tested positive for COVID-19 but are said to be "in good health" after self isolating themselves.

The Atalanta squad have now been placed into quarantine to try and prevent the virus spreading, with Bergamo just 25 miles away from Milan and some of the worst affected areas in Italy.

In a series of tweets, de Roon took to social media to tell fans about his experience over the last few days.

“I want to give a little update from my side since I’m getting a lot of questions,” de Roon began.

“With the team we’re now in quarantine which means we can’t go outside anymore.

“Three players of Valencia tested positive for COVID-19, and because we played our game against them (and won that’s why we’re in the final 8 of the UCL, I know... not the right time) we’re now in quarantine.

“I never thought I’d have to deal with a situation like this.

De Roon also spoke about the damaging impacts the virus has had in Italy and on the nearby town of Lombardy.

“After the game against Valencia we were happy for an hour before going back the situation in Bergamo,” de Roon added.

“It’s really bad. The streets are completely empty. All you hear is the sound of ambulances and the church bells, that ring every day for the people who sadly passed away.

“Better days are coming, Italy is strong, but I want to wish everyone strength these coming weeks.”