Premier League clubs are fearful of another shutdown in the season following a record number of Covid-19 cases.
There was a record 42 confirmed cases of Covid-19 announced on Monday night, with at least five clubs producing positive tests as concerns escalate over the spread of the Omicron variant.
According to the Mail, the ‘slow pace’ of the booster programme for Premier League squads has also increased fears over a shutdown to the season, with Wolves understood to be the only side on target to meet Boris Johnson’s target of providing booster vaccinations to all over-18s by the end of the month. Brentford and Leeds are also advanced in their bid to reach the target.
Tottenham’s game with Brighton was postponed on Sunday following a high number of cases in the north London side’s squad, whilst Manchester United’s fixture with Brentford on Tuesday has become the latest Premier League fixture to be rescheduled.
The Red Devils confirmed that the clash has been postponed following an outbreak amongst Ralf Rangnick’s squad.
“Manchester United can confirm that our Premier League fixture at Brentford FC, on Tuesday 14 December at 19:30, has been postponed and will be rescheduled in due course,” a statement on the club website revealed.
“Following PCR confirmation of positive LFT Covid-19 tests among the first-team staff and players, the outbreak requires ongoing surveillance. A decision was taken to close first-team operations at the Carrington Training Complex for 24 hours to help minimise risk of further infection, and individuals who tested positive are isolating in line with Premier League protocols.
“Given cancellation of training and disruption to the squad, and with the health of players and staff the priority, the Club requested the match to be rearranged. The Premier League Board took the decision to postpone based on guidance from medical advisors.
“Manchester United regrets the inconvenience caused to Brentford FC and to the fans of both clubs by Covid-19.”
