Unless the Premier League fixture list is further decimated by the COVID-19 surge that has ripped the pre-Christmas schedule to shreds the three-way title race will continue on Sunday with Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea all in action.

City, who lead the table by a point, travel to relegation strugglers Newcastle United, while second-placed Liverpool visit Tottenham Hotspur, who have had their last two league games postponed because of infections.

Third-placed Chelsea, who were deprived of three players because of COVID-19 in their 1-1 home draw with Everton on Thursday, are first up at Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Whether all or any of the games go ahead as planned, however, is a matter of some doubt.

The league has ruled out a 'pause'&nbsp;to the season to allow clubs to recover their squads, although the surging Omicron variant has put paid to half of the weekend's fixtures including Manchester United`s home game with Brighton &amp; Hove Albion.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-leicester-manchester-united-games-postponed-as-covid-19-plays-havoc-in-schedule-437478">Premier League: Leicester, Manchester United games postponed as COVID-19 plays havoc in schedule</a>

Aston Villa, who have also reported infections, are still scheduled to host Burnley on Saturday with Leeds United also in action against fourth-placed Arsenal in the late kickoff.

Despite the distractions and uncertainty, the title rivals will be keenly aware that the season is reaching a crucial phase and any slip-ups now could prove extremely costly.

Not that champions City look remotely flustered, having put seven goals past Leeds United on Tuesday.

CURRENT STRAINS

If any squad can cope with the current strains it is Pep Guardiola's at City. With quality options in reserve, they are beginning to accelerate at just the right time having won their last seven league matches.

Six players were on target in the 7-0 win against Leeds, with Kevin de Bruyne striking twice, and Newcastle's creaky defence will not be relishing City's visit on Sunday.

Liverpool kept up the pressure at the top as they came from a goal down to beat Newcastle 3-1 on Thursday, despite having Virgil Van Dijk, Fabinho and Curtis Jones missing because of positive COVID tests on the day of the game.

Juergen Klopp said he "hoped" the Tottenham game would go ahead but did not sound too optimistic.

"It`s a really tricky situation. Nobody knows exactly how we'll be tomorrow," the German said on Thursday.

"I`ve never had three players on matchday pull out. The most important thing is because the boys are vaccinated they will not feel it really. That's good. We have to wait for them.

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"Should we stop the league? I have no real answer for it. If you stop it for two weeks and we come back, I really don`t know what to do. There are plenty of questions we need to find answers for but I don`t have the solution."

Chelsea`s surprise home draw with Everton left them four points behind City and Thomas Tuchel`s side face a tough task at Wolves, who sit eighth after a midweek win at Brighton.

Asked if the title race should be put on hold while the protagonists deal with COVID infections, Tuchel said he did not want to get involved in sports politics.

"We are all worried about COVID, it is close to us, we had four positives. Other games get cancelled, ours didn`t. If they decide we have to play we play," he told reporters.

Unless the Premier League fixture list is further decimated by the COVID-19 surge that has ripped the pre-Christmas schedule to shreds the three-way title race will continue on Sunday with Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea all in action.

Unless the Premier League fixture list is further decimated by the COVID-19 surge that has ripped the pre-Christmas schedule to shreds the three-way title race will continue on Sunday with Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea all in action. City, who lead the table by a point, travel to relegation strugglers Newcastle United, while second-placed Liverpool visit Tottenham Hotspur, who have had their last two league games postponed because of infections. Third-placed Chelsea, who were deprived of three players because of COVID-19 in their 1-1 home draw with Everton on Thursday, are first up at Wolverhampton Wanderers. Whether all or any of the games go ahead as planned, however, is a matter of some doubt. The league has ruled out a 'pause' to the season to allow clubs to recover their squads, although the surging Omicron variant has put paid to half of the weekend's fixtures including Manchester United`s home game with Brighton & Hove Albion. ALSO READ: Premier League: Leicester, Manchester United games postponed as COVID-19 plays havoc in schedule Aston Villa, who have also reported infections, are still scheduled to host Burnley on Saturday with Leeds United also in action against fourth-placed Arsenal in the late kickoff. Despite the distractions and uncertainty, the title rivals will be keenly aware that the season is reaching a crucial phase and any slip-ups now could prove extremely costly. Not that champions City look remotely flustered, having put seven goals past Leeds United on Tuesday. CURRENT STRAINS If any squad can cope with the current strains it is Pep Guardiola's at City. With quality options in reserve, they are beginning to accelerate at just the right time having won their last seven league matches. Six players were on target in the 7-0 win against Leeds, with Kevin de Bruyne striking twice, and Newcastle's creaky defence will not be relishing City's visit on Sunday. Liverpool kept up the pressure at the top as they came from a goal down to beat Newcastle 3-1 on Thursday, despite having Virgil Van Dijk, Fabinho and Curtis Jones missing because of positive COVID tests on the day of the game. Juergen Klopp said he "hoped" the Tottenham game would go ahead but did not sound too optimistic. "It`s a really tricky situation. Nobody knows exactly how we'll be tomorrow," the German said on Thursday. "I`ve never had three players on matchday pull out. The most important thing is because the boys are vaccinated they will not feel it really. That's good. We have to wait for them. ALSO READ: London to host Italy, Argentina in 'Finalissima' next year "Should we stop the league? I have no real answer for it. If you stop it for two weeks and we come back, I really don`t know what to do. There are plenty of questions we need to find answers for but I don`t have the solution." Chelsea`s surprise home draw with Everton left them four points behind City and Thomas Tuchel`s side face a tough task at Wolves, who sit eighth after a midweek win at Brighton. Asked if the title race should be put on hold while the protagonists deal with COVID infections, Tuchel said he did not want to get involved in sports politics. "We are all worried about COVID, it is close to us, we had four positives. Other games get cancelled, ours didn`t. If they decide we have to play we play," he told reporters.

Premier League title race to continue despite increase in COVID-19 cases

Leicester City's Premier League game against Tottenham Hotspur on Thursday and Manchester United`s home clash with Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday have been postponed as rising COVID-19 cases threaten to play havoc with the season.

Thursday's announcements from the Premier League mean five games have been lost in the past week, although the league says it plans to continue with the current fixture schedule.

"While recognising a number of clubs are experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks, it is the League's intention to continue its current fixture schedule where safely possible," it said in a statement confirming the United postponement.

"The health and wellbeing of all concerned remains our priority."

Earlier in the day Brentford manager Thomas Frank called for all Premier League games in the coming week to be postponed to allow clubs to recover their depleted squads.

Tottenham, who reported 13 positive tests among players and staff, have had two Premier League games postponed after last week's trip to Brighton was also called off.

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United have now had two games postponed after their trip to Brentford on Tuesday was called off after United's training ground was closed due to an outbreak of COVID-19.

United said on Thursday that they would "suspend football training operations at the Carrington Training Complex for a short period to help reduce risk of further transmission".

On Wednesday Burnley's home match with Watford was called off shortly before kickoff after Watford had reported positive tests. Brighton, Norwich City and Aston Villa have also reported cases as the omicron variant spreads rapidly across the country.

Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers on Wednesday criticised the Premier League after an initial request to have Thursday`s game against Tottenham postponed was turned down.

With December traditionally a packed fixture list, Rodgers, who had nine players unavailable, said lucrative TV deals were being prioritised over the health of players.

"I'm pretty sure that's the case," Rodgers told reporters when asked. "In terms of players, managers and coaches, we all want to play the games. Ultimately the health of a player is the priority. If players are available, you get a better product."

The Premier League said the decision to grant a postponement came after Leicester reported more cases.

"In light of the new information, Leicester applied this morning for the fixture to be called off due to an ongoing outbreak within the squad, which has resulted in more players and staff testing positive for COVID-19 today," it said.

"This has left the club with an insufficient number of players available to fulfil the game."

'THROUGH THE ROOF'

Brighton lost 1-0 to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday after an unsuccessful attempt to have the game postponed because of COVID cases.

Speaking on Thursday, Brentford boss Frank said he was dealing with 13 cases at the London club.

"The COVID cases are going through the roof at all Premier League clubs," Frank told a news conference.

"Everyone is dealing with it and everyone has a problem at this moment in time. To postpone this round (of Premier League games) and the Carabao Cup (League Cup) would give everyone a week at least to clean and do everything at the training ground so everything is fine and we break the chain at every club."

Two more Premier League games are scheduled for later on Thursday with Liverpool hosting Newcastle United and Chelsea at home to Everton. Chelsea are also reported to have players unavailable because of COVID-19.

There is then a full round of fixtures at the weekend before a hectic Christmas schedule -- with many games shown live on TV.

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"We want to carry on but this way we can have Boxing Day going no problem, 100% sure of that," said Frank of his call for a pause. "We think that would be very sensible to do that."

The Premier League has re-introduced "emergency measures" after announcing on Monday a record 42 new positive COVID cases in the past week. Players now need to take lateral flow tests every day and two PCR tests per week.

League rules state that if a team cannot raise 14 players then a game can be postponed, although other factors, such as impact on preparation and whether or not there has been an "uncontrollable outbreak" are taken into account.

The Premier League's policy is to address postponements on a case-by-case basis.

It said United`s game against Brighton had been called off after the club reported additional cases on Thursday, leaving then unable to field a team.

The UK reported a record 78,000 new COVID-19 infections on Wednesday as the omicron variant takes hold. The government has pledged to offer booster vaccinations to all adults by the end of the year to try and stem the tide.

The Premier League last released data on vaccination levels of players in mid-October saying 81% of players had received at least one COVID-19 vaccination dose with 68% double vaccinated.

Leicester City's Premier League game against Tottenham Hotspur on Thursday and Manchester United`s home clash with Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday have been postponed as rising COVID-19 cases threaten to play havoc with the season.

Leicester City's Premier League game against Tottenham Hotspur on Thursday and Manchester United`s home clash with Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday have been postponed as rising COVID-19 cases threaten to play havoc with the season. Thursday's announcements from the Premier League mean five games have been lost in the past week, although the league says it plans to continue with the current fixture schedule. "While recognising a number of clubs are experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks, it is the League's intention to continue its current fixture schedule where safely possible," it said in a statement confirming the United postponement. "The health and wellbeing of all concerned remains our priority." Earlier in the day Brentford manager Thomas Frank called for all Premier League games in the coming week to be postponed to allow clubs to recover their depleted squads. Tottenham, who reported 13 positive tests among players and staff, have had two Premier League games postponed after last week's trip to Brighton was also called off. ALSO READ: London to host Italy, Argentina in 'Finalissima' next year United have now had two games postponed after their trip to Brentford on Tuesday was called off after United's training ground was closed due to an outbreak of COVID-19. United said on Thursday that they would "suspend football training operations at the Carrington Training Complex for a short period to help reduce risk of further transmission". On Wednesday Burnley's home match with Watford was called off shortly before kickoff after Watford had reported positive tests. Brighton, Norwich City and Aston Villa have also reported cases as the omicron variant spreads rapidly across the country. Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers on Wednesday criticised the Premier League after an initial request to have Thursday`s game against Tottenham postponed was turned down. With December traditionally a packed fixture list, Rodgers, who had nine players unavailable, said lucrative TV deals were being prioritised over the health of players. "I'm pretty sure that's the case," Rodgers told reporters when asked. "In terms of players, managers and coaches, we all want to play the games. Ultimately the health of a player is the priority. If players are available, you get a better product." The Premier League said the decision to grant a postponement came after Leicester reported more cases. "In light of the new information, Leicester applied this morning for the fixture to be called off due to an ongoing outbreak within the squad, which has resulted in more players and staff testing positive for COVID-19 today," it said. "This has left the club with an insufficient number of players available to fulfil the game." 'THROUGH THE ROOF' Brighton lost 1-0 to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday after an unsuccessful attempt to have the game postponed because of COVID cases. Speaking on Thursday, Brentford boss Frank said he was dealing with 13 cases at the London club. "The COVID cases are going through the roof at all Premier League clubs," Frank told a news conference. "Everyone is dealing with it and everyone has a problem at this moment in time. To postpone this round (of Premier League games) and the Carabao Cup (League Cup) would give everyone a week at least to clean and do everything at the training ground so everything is fine and we break the chain at every club." Two more Premier League games are scheduled for later on Thursday with Liverpool hosting Newcastle United and Chelsea at home to Everton. Chelsea are also reported to have players unavailable because of COVID-19. There is then a full round of fixtures at the weekend before a hectic Christmas schedule -- with many games shown live on TV. ALSO READ: Barcelona striker Sergio Aguero announces retirement from football due to heart problems - WATCH "We want to carry on but this way we can have Boxing Day going no problem, 100% sure of that," said Frank of his call for a pause. "We think that would be very sensible to do that." The Premier League has re-introduced "emergency measures" after announcing on Monday a record 42 new positive COVID cases in the past week. Players now need to take lateral flow tests every day and two PCR tests per week. League rules state that if a team cannot raise 14 players then a game can be postponed, although other factors, such as impact on preparation and whether or not there has been an "uncontrollable outbreak" are taken into account. The Premier League's policy is to address postponements on a case-by-case basis. It said United`s game against Brighton had been called off after the club reported additional cases on Thursday, leaving then unable to field a team. The UK reported a record 78,000 new COVID-19 infections on Wednesday as the omicron variant takes hold. The government has pledged to offer booster vaccinations to all adults by the end of the year to try and stem the tide. The Premier League last released data on vaccination levels of players in mid-October saying 81% of players had received at least one COVID-19 vaccination dose with 68% double vaccinated.

Premier League: Leicester, Manchester United games postponed as COVID-19 plays havoc in schedule

The COVID-19 outbreak at Aston Villa has forced their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> match against Everton to be postponed as the Premier League holds talks with captains and managers to urge them to keep up with the enhanced regulation to curb the spread of the dreaded virus.&nbsp;

“A significant number of players and staff remain in isolation” at Villa, the league said on Thursday.&nbsp;

Aston Villa, whose match against Tottenham Hotspur was also called off, are expecting the isolating players and staff to return to training from Sunday.&nbsp;

The Premier League has tightened up the COVID-19 protocols as the United Kingdom continue to fight against the virus. The players and managers have been asked to avoid handshake and hugging during goal celebrations with the message being reinforced in virtual meetings with captains and managers before this weekend's matches.&nbsp;

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“Some of the scenes we have seen have been brainless and give out an awful message,” said Julian Knight, who chairs the House of Commons select committee overseeing sports policy.&nbsp;

The Premier League, like other elite sports competitions, has been allowed to continue during the recent lockdown in England which started last week. However, the government on Wednesday expressed concerns about players not following regulations when it comes to celebrating goals.&nbsp;

Manchester City players hugged after Phil Foden's strike in their 1-0 win over Brighton and Hove Albion on Wednesday. Pep Guardiola, after the match, defended his players.&nbsp;

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“Sometimes the brain is a subconscious one and you are just there in the moment,” City manager Pep Guardiola said. “You are not thinking.”&nbsp;

Britain recorded another 1,564 deaths, announced on Wednesday, the highest on a single day since the pandemic began in 2020.&nbsp;

The COVID-19 outbreak at Aston Villa has forced their Premier League match against Everton to be postponed as the Premier League holds talks with captains and managers to urge them to keep up with the enhanced regulation to curb the spread of the dreaded virus.

The COVID-19 outbreak at Aston Villa has forced their Premier League match against Everton to be postponed as the Premier League holds talks with captains and managers to urge them to keep up with the enhanced regulation to curb the spread of the dreaded virus. “A significant number of players and staff remain in isolation” at Villa, the league said on Thursday. Aston Villa, whose match against Tottenham Hotspur was also called off, are expecting the isolating players and staff to return to training from Sunday. The Premier League has tightened up the COVID-19 protocols as the United Kingdom continue to fight against the virus. The players and managers have been asked to avoid handshake and hugging during goal celebrations with the message being reinforced in virtual meetings with captains and managers before this weekend's matches. ALSO READ: Fulham silence Mourinho with late leveller to deny Spurs “Some of the scenes we have seen have been brainless and give out an awful message,” said Julian Knight, who chairs the House of Commons select committee overseeing sports policy. The Premier League, like other elite sports competitions, has been allowed to continue during the recent lockdown in England which started last week. However, the government on Wednesday expressed concerns about players not following regulations when it comes to celebrating goals. Manchester City players hugged after Phil Foden's strike in their 1-0 win over Brighton and Hove Albion on Wednesday. Pep Guardiola, after the match, defended his players. ALSO READ: 'LaLiga is beyond individuals': Fernando Hierro on Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos contract situation “Sometimes the brain is a subconscious one and you are just there in the moment,” City manager Pep Guardiola said. “You are not thinking.” Britain recorded another 1,564 deaths, announced on Wednesday, the highest on a single day since the pandemic began in 2020.

Premier League calls off match; urges captains to end hugs, handshakes

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> on Tuesday confirmed as many as 40 new COVID-19 cases among players and staff as the coronavirus continues to wreak havoc in the United Kingdom. The Premier League tested players and staff twice per week between December 28 and December 31 - out of which 28 new positive cases were found. A total of 12 new cases were found between January 1 and January 3 as England's top-flight continues with its rigorous testing policy.

As many as 1311 players and club staff were tested in the last three days of December 2019 and another 984 players were tested between January 1 and January 3, out of which 40 players and staff were confirmed positive for the virus.

Furthermore, three fixtures have already been affected due to outbreak of coronavirus in some clubs. However, the Premier League continues to trusts its testing policy and is set to be continued, after solid backing by the UK government.

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<h2>Premier League statement on COVID-19 tests:&nbsp;</h2>

The Premier League is now testing players and club staff twice per week and can today confirm that between Monday 28 December and Thursday 31 December, 1,311 players and club staff were tested for COVID-19.

Of these, there were 28 new positive tests.

Between Friday 1 January and Sunday 3 January, 984 players and club staff were tested for COVID-19 and of these, there were 12 new positives.

During this time period, three fixtures were postponed following an increased number of positive tests at two clubs. These matches will be rearranged as soon as possible.

With low numbers of positive tests across the overwhelming majority of clubs, the League continues to have confidence in its COVID-19 protocols, fully backed by the Government, to enable fixtures to be played as scheduled.

Players or club staff who have tested positive will self-isolate for a period of 10 days.

The Premier League is providing this aggregated information for the purposes of competition integrity and transparency.

No specific details as to clubs or individuals will be provided by the League and results will be made public after each round of testing.

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<h2>Premier League COVID-19 results:&nbsp;</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Round 1: Aug 31-Sep 6 - 1,605 tested, with three testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 2: Sep 7-13 - 2,131 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 3: Sep 14-20- 1,574 tested, with three testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 4: Sep 21-27 - 1,595 tested, with 10 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 5: Sep 28-Oct 4 - 1,587 tested, with nine testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 6: Oct 5-11 - 1,128 tested, with five testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 7: Oct 12-18 - 1,575 tested, with eight testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 8: Oct 19-25 - 1,609 tested, with two testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 9: Oct 26-Nov 1 - 1,446 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 10: Nov 2-8 - 1,646 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 11: Nov 9-15 - 1,207 tested, with 16 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 12: Nov 16-22 - 1,530 tested, with eight testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 13: Nov 23-29 - 1,381 tested, with 10 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 14: Nov 30-Dec 6 - 1,483 tested, with 14 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 15: Dec 7-13 - 1,549 tested, with six testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 16: Dec 14-20 - 1,569 tested, with seven testing positive&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Round 17: Dec 21-27 - 1,479 tested, with 18 testing positive&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Round 18: Dec 28-Jan 3 - 2,295 tested, with 40 testing positive&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Premier League on Tuesday confirmed as many as 40 new COVID-19 cases among players and staff as the coronavirus continues to wreak havoc in the United Kingdom. The Premier League tested players and staff twice per week between December 28 and December 31 - out of which 28 new positive cases were found.

Premier League on Tuesday confirmed as many as 40 new COVID-19 cases among players and staff as the coronavirus continues to wreak havoc in the United Kingdom. The Premier League tested players and staff twice per week between December 28 and December 31 - out of which 28 new positive cases were found. A total of 12 new cases were found between January 1 and January 3 as England's top-flight continues with its rigorous testing policy. As many as 1311 players and club staff were tested in the last three days of December 2019 and another 984 players were tested between January 1 and January 3, out of which 40 players and staff were confirmed positive for the virus. Furthermore, three fixtures have already been affected due to outbreak of coronavirus in some clubs. However, the Premier League continues to trusts its testing policy and is set to be continued, after solid backing by the UK government. ALSO READ: Watch: Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl cries tears of joy as Saints defeat Liverpool Premier League statement on COVID-19 tests: The Premier League is now testing players and club staff twice per week and can today confirm that between Monday 28 December and Thursday 31 December, 1,311 players and club staff were tested for COVID-19. Of these, there were 28 new positive tests. Between Friday 1 January and Sunday 3 January, 984 players and club staff were tested for COVID-19 and of these, there were 12 new positives. During this time period, three fixtures were postponed following an increased number of positive tests at two clubs. These matches will be rearranged as soon as possible. With low numbers of positive tests across the overwhelming majority of clubs, the League continues to have confidence in its COVID-19 protocols, fully backed by the Government, to enable fixtures to be played as scheduled. Players or club staff who have tested positive will self-isolate for a period of 10 days. The Premier League is providing this aggregated information for the purposes of competition integrity and transparency. No specific details as to clubs or individuals will be provided by the League and results will be made public after each round of testing. ALSO READ: 'Rusty' Liverpool stumble again in Southampton defeat Premier League COVID-19 results: Round 1: Aug 31-Sep 6 - 1,605 tested, with three testing positive. Round 2: Sep 7-13 - 2,131 tested, with four testing positive. Round 3: Sep 14-20- 1,574 tested, with three testing positive. Round 4: Sep 21-27 - 1,595 tested, with 10 testing positive. Round 5: Sep 28-Oct 4 - 1,587 tested, with nine testing positive. Round 6: Oct 5-11 - 1,128 tested, with five testing positive. Round 7: Oct 12-18 - 1,575 tested, with eight testing positive. Round 8: Oct 19-25 - 1,609 tested, with two testing positive. Round 9: Oct 26-Nov 1 - 1,446 tested, with four testing positive. Round 10: Nov 2-8 - 1,646 tested, with four testing positive. Round 11: Nov 9-15 - 1,207 tested, with 16 testing positive. Round 12: Nov 16-22 - 1,530 tested, with eight testing positive. Round 13: Nov 23-29 - 1,381 tested, with 10 testing positive. Round 14: Nov 30-Dec 6 - 1,483 tested, with 14 testing positive. Round 15: Dec 7-13 - 1,549 tested, with six testing positive. Round 16: Dec 14-20 - 1,569 tested, with seven testing positive Round 17: Dec 21-27 - 1,479 tested, with 18 testing positive Round 18: Dec 28-Jan 3 - 2,295 tested, with 40 testing positive

Premier League COVID-19 cases double in a week with record 40 new cases

Burnley`s home game against Fulham has become the latest match in the Premier League to be postponed due to coronavirus cases. The match was due to be played on Sunday and has become the second match involving Fulham due to be postponed. 
 
The Premier League said that there was an increase in positive Covid-19 cases in Fulham as the club got their players and staff tested after the postponement of their match against Tottenham Hotspur. 
 
"Following Fulham`s request to rearrange the Burnley fixture, the Premier League`s Board has taken into consideration further independent medical advice and decided to postpone the match due to the exceptional circumstances of the ongoing outbreak at the club," said the Premier League in a statement. 
 
Apart from Fulham`s two matches, Aston Villa`s home game against Newcastle United and Everton`s match against Manchester City were the other two games to be postponed due to Covid-19 cases within the teams.

Burnley`s home game against Fulham has become the latest match in the Premier League to be postponed due to coronavirus cases. The match was due to be played on Sunday and has become the second match involving Fulham due to be postponed.

Burnley`s home game against Fulham has become the latest match in the Premier League to be postponed due to coronavirus cases. The match was due to be played on Sunday and has become the second match involving Fulham due to be postponed. The Premier League said that there was an increase in positive Covid-19 cases in Fulham as the club got their players and staff tested after the postponement of their match against Tottenham Hotspur. "Following Fulham`s request to rearrange the Burnley fixture, the Premier League`s Board has taken into consideration further independent medical advice and decided to postpone the match due to the exceptional circumstances of the ongoing outbreak at the club," said the Premier League in a statement. Apart from Fulham`s two matches, Aston Villa`s home game against Newcastle United and Everton`s match against Manchester City were the other two games to be postponed due to Covid-19 cases within the teams.

Burnley's home match against Fulham postponed

Pep Guardiola on Friday confirmed that five Manchester City players won’t be available for their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> match against Chelsea after testing positive for the coronavirus as they continue to isolate.&nbsp;

Ahead of their away match against Chelsea, Man City returned to training after the coronavirus outbreak, within the squad, led to the postponement of Monday’s clash against Everton. The United Kingdom continues to battle COVID-19 and its new strain.&nbsp;

“We had enough players to play against Everton - we wanted to play - but on the day of the game with the day before four cases, the virus was inside. I called Ancelotti to announce the situation because we could play, but if we travel and we had been in touch with our infected players, we could infect Everton,” Guardiola said in a press conference on Friday.

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“It was a big risk. Not just here. Around the world,” he added.

Man City have identified only Gabriel Jesus and Kyle Walker as having contracted the dreaded virus. However, Guardiola said that Man City have a good squad to travel to Stamford Bridge and play with enthusiasm and good will.

“We have a good squad to go there (Stamford Bridge) and try to compete against a tough opponent - Chelsea. &nbsp;But we go there to play our game with enthusiasm and good will. We try to do our job and do a good performance,” Guardiola said.

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Earlier on Friday, Chelsea manager Frank Lampard said that there have been a “couple” of cases among the club’s staff but clarified the players weren’t infected.

Manchester City currently sits eighth in the Premier League points table after playing 14 matches, two less than league leaders Liverpool, and will look to topple Chelsea, who also have 26 points, in the standings.&nbsp;

Pep Guardiola on Friday confirmed that five Manchester City players won’t be available for their Premier League match against Chelsea after testing positive for the coronavirus as they continue to isolate.

Pep Guardiola on Friday confirmed that five Manchester City players won’t be available for their Premier League match against Chelsea after testing positive for the coronavirus as they continue to isolate. Ahead of their away match against Chelsea, Man City returned to training after the coronavirus outbreak, within the squad, led to the postponement of Monday’s clash against Everton. The United Kingdom continues to battle COVID-19 and its new strain. “We had enough players to play against Everton - we wanted to play - but on the day of the game with the day before four cases, the virus was inside. I called Ancelotti to announce the situation because we could play, but if we travel and we had been in touch with our infected players, we could infect Everton,” Guardiola said in a press conference on Friday. ALSO READ: Will the Premier League get suspended? Here's everything you need to know “It was a big risk. Not just here. Around the world,” he added. Man City have identified only Gabriel Jesus and Kyle Walker as having contracted the dreaded virus. However, Guardiola said that Man City have a good squad to travel to Stamford Bridge and play with enthusiasm and good will. “We have a good squad to go there (Stamford Bridge) and try to compete against a tough opponent - Chelsea. But we go there to play our game with enthusiasm and good will. We try to do our job and do a good performance,” Guardiola said. ALSO READ: Liverpool miss chance to stretch lead after Newcastle stalemate Earlier on Friday, Chelsea manager Frank Lampard said that there have been a “couple” of cases among the club’s staff but clarified the players weren’t infected. Manchester City currently sits eighth in the Premier League points table after playing 14 matches, two less than league leaders Liverpool, and will look to topple Chelsea, who also have 26 points, in the standings.

5 Man City players isolating after testing positive for coronavirus

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> on Wednesday postponed the match between Tottenham Hotspur versus Fulham after the Cottagers recorded multiple positive COVID-19 tests on Tuesday.

Spurs versus Fulham was set to start at 18:00 GMT on Wednesday at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium but was postponed amid rising fears of COVID-19 outbreak in the English top-flight. It is the second Premier League fixture to be postponed this week after Manchester City’s match against Everton was deferred following “an increase in positive COVID-19 test results” at City.

Fulham recorded a number of positive cases for the coronavirus in the first round of testing across the Premier League. The clubs in Tier 4 are needed to test twice a week in a bid to halt the rising cases of the virus.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-the-premier-league-get-suspended-heres-everything-you-need-to-know-353425" hreflang="en">Will the Premier League get suspended? Here's everything you need to know</a>

On Tuesday, the Premier League announced that it had record 18 positive cases last week – the most since the pandemic started. The likes of Arsenal and Sheffield United have all confirmed positive cases this week.

Even Fulham manager Scott Parker, in his press conference on Tuesday, said that he had tested negative for the virus on Sunday and hence, was allowed to return to the training ground at the start of this week.

Earlier on Wednesday, Spurs manager Jose Mourinho took a cheeky jibe at the Premier League for lack of clarity regarding the scheduling of matches with the Premier League Board delaying the final call just hours before the kick-off time.

Mourinho took to micro-blogging platform Instagram as he posted a video of his staff four hours before the scheduled kick-off time: “Match at 6 pm... We still don’t know if we play. Best league in the world,” he captioned the post.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-very-concerned-west-broms-sam-allardyce-calls-for-circuit-break-in-premier-league-353384" hreflang="en">'I'm very concerned...' - West Brom's Sam Allardyce calls for 'circuit-break' in Premier League</a>

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<h2>Premier League statement on Tottenham Hostpur vs Fulham:&nbsp;</h2>

"The match between Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham, due to be played at 18:00 GMT this evening, has been postponed following a Premier League Board meeting this afternoon.

"Fulham lodged a request with the Premier League Board to rearrange the fixture following a significant rise in positive COVID-19 cases, as well as a number of players showing symptoms today.

"The Premier League Board has consulted its medical advisors and the decision to postpone the game has been taken as a precaution and with the health of players and staff as the priority. The group will now be retested immediately.

"With low numbers of positive tests across the overwhelming majority of clubs, the Premier League continues to have full confidence in its COVID-19 protocols and being able to continue to play our fixtures as scheduled.

"The League wishes those with COVID-19 a safe and speedy recovery and will rearrange the postponed fixture between Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham in due course."

The Premier League on Wednesday postponed the match between Tottenham Hotspur versus Fulham after the Cottagers recorded multiple positive COVID-19 tests on Tuesday.

The Premier League on Wednesday postponed the match between Tottenham Hotspur versus Fulham after the Cottagers recorded multiple positive COVID-19 tests on Tuesday. Spurs versus Fulham was set to start at 18:00 GMT on Wednesday at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium but was postponed amid rising fears of COVID-19 outbreak in the English top-flight. It is the second Premier League fixture to be postponed this week after Manchester City’s match against Everton was deferred following “an increase in positive COVID-19 test results” at City. Fulham recorded a number of positive cases for the coronavirus in the first round of testing across the Premier League. The clubs in Tier 4 are needed to test twice a week in a bid to halt the rising cases of the virus. ALSO READ: Will the Premier League get suspended? Here's everything you need to know On Tuesday, the Premier League announced that it had record 18 positive cases last week – the most since the pandemic started. The likes of Arsenal and Sheffield United have all confirmed positive cases this week. Even Fulham manager Scott Parker, in his press conference on Tuesday, said that he had tested negative for the virus on Sunday and hence, was allowed to return to the training ground at the start of this week. Earlier on Wednesday, Spurs manager Jose Mourinho took a cheeky jibe at the Premier League for lack of clarity regarding the scheduling of matches with the Premier League Board delaying the final call just hours before the kick-off time. Mourinho took to micro-blogging platform Instagram as he posted a video of his staff four hours before the scheduled kick-off time: “Match at 6 pm... We still don’t know if we play. Best league in the world,” he captioned the post. ALSO READ: 'I'm very concerned...' - West Brom's Sam Allardyce calls for 'circuit-break' in Premier League View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jose Mourinho (@josemourinho) × Premier League statement on Tottenham Hostpur vs Fulham: "The match between Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham, due to be played at 18:00 GMT this evening, has been postponed following a Premier League Board meeting this afternoon. "Fulham lodged a request with the Premier League Board to rearrange the fixture following a significant rise in positive COVID-19 cases, as well as a number of players showing symptoms today. "The Premier League Board has consulted its medical advisors and the decision to postpone the game has been taken as a precaution and with the health of players and staff as the priority. The group will now be retested immediately. "With low numbers of positive tests across the overwhelming majority of clubs, the Premier League continues to have full confidence in its COVID-19 protocols and being able to continue to play our fixtures as scheduled. "The League wishes those with COVID-19 a safe and speedy recovery and will rearrange the postponed fixture between Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham in due course."

Tottenham Hotspur vs Fulham postponed as COVID-19 cases hit Premier League

With as many as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-18-new-positive-covid-19-cases-from-latest-round-of-testing-353173">18 COVID-19 positive results</a> in the latest round of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> testing, calls are being made for the English top-flight league to take a break for a couple of weeks. While the likes of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-very-concerned-west-broms-sam-allardyce-calls-for-circuit-break-in-premier-league-353384">Sam Allardyce has already called for a two-break “circuit-break”</a>, will the Premier League witness a break again as the new coronavirus strain wreaks havoc in the United Kingdom?

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> match between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-citys-clash-at-everton-postponed-due-to-multiple-covid-19-cases-353016">Everton and Manchester City was postponed</a> at the last hour amid concerns of an outbreak within the City squad. The training ground of Manchester City has already been shut indefinitely with deep cleaning taking place after another round of testing on Tuesday.&nbsp;

A number of positive COVID-19 cases at Fulham has also put their match against Tottenham Hotspur, on Wednesday, in doubt with a final call expected to be taken by the Premier League Board soon. Earlier in December, the match between Aston Villa and Newcastle United also suffered postponement.&nbsp;

After postponing the match between Man City and Everton, the Premier League stated that decisions to rearrange games are only in "exceptional" circumstances and judged on "case-by-case basis".

<h2>What do Premier League rules say about postponement?</h2>

“Permission will not be granted to postpone a League Match where the applicant Club has 14 or more Players listed on its Squad List available.”

<h2>Will the Premier League get postponed, again?</h2>

Latest reports suggest that no discussions have taken place either formally or informally about a break and in all likelihood, matches will continue. However, the Premier League has ramped up the COVID-19 testing with two tests mandatory for all Premier League clubs from January.

<h2>What have Premier League managers said?</h2>

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer: “It’s not something I’ve thought about a lot. I think our players have been really good in following protocols and rules. That’s part of the job here, that we as clubs follow the protocols given. I can’t see the benefit in having a circuit break, whatever it’s going to be called.

“Because when are we going to play the games? We all know this year is so difficult, but I don’t think stopping the games is going to make a big, big change.”

West Brom boss Sam Allardyce: “Everyone’s safety is more important than anything else. When I listen to the news the variant virus transmits quicker than the original virus [so] we can only do the right thing which is have a circuit break.

“I am 66 years old and the last thing I want to do is catch Covid. I’m very concerned for myself and football in general. If that’s what needs to be done we need to do it. We had one positive this week and it seems to be creeping around no matter how hard we try.”

Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo: “The rising of the cases is increasing massively over the country and we are not an exception. 
“Some things are impossible to avoid. If there’s a break coming, then people have to sit down and see if it’s for the better.” 
Brighton boss Graham Potter: “Whatever the people think is the right thing to do, for the health of our community, that’s the most important thing. Whatever is deemed right, that’s what we’ll do.”

Burnley boss Sean Dyche: “We’ve got protocols in place and everyone has tried to align with the protocols. But that doesn’t stop everything.

“I just hope it stays outside of football as best it can. If the numbers keep rising we’ll have to deal with that accordingly.”

Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder: “We’ve lost five members of staff and some players as well. I think it’s the start of something. We’re going through the process and I’m doing the best I can to keep it away from the players.

“But sometimes it’s virtually impossible. We’ve seen the rise in cases right the way through, so we’re just going to have to battle on.”

<h2>Premier League COVID-19 tests results:&nbsp;</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Round 1: 31 Aug-6 Sep – 1,605 tested, with three testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 2: 7-13 Sep – 2,131 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 3: 14-20 Sep – 1,574 tested, with three testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 4: 21-27 Sep – 1,595 tested, with 10 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 5: 28 Sep-4 Oct – 1,587 tested, with nine testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 6: 5-11 Oct – 1,128 tested, with five testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 7: 12-18 Oct – 1,575 tested, with eight testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 8: 19-25 Oct – 1,609 tested, with two testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 9: 26 Oct-1 Nov – 1,446 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 10: 2-8 Nov – 1,646 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 11: 9-15 Nov – 1,207 tested, with 16 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 12: 16-22 Nov – 1,530 tested, with eight testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 13: 23-29 Nov – 1,381 tested, with 10 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 14: 30 Nov-6 Dec – 1,483 tested with 14 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 15: 7-13 Dec – 1,549 tested with six testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 16: 14-20 Dec – 1,569 tested with seven testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 17: 21-27 Dec – 1,479 tested with 18 testing positive.</li>
</ul>

With as many as 18 COVID-19 positive results in the latest round of Premier League testing, calls are being made for the English top-flight league to take a break for a couple of weeks.

With as many as 18 COVID-19 positive results in the latest round of Premier League testing, calls are being made for the English top-flight league to take a break for a couple of weeks. While the likes of Sam Allardyce has already called for a two-break “circuit-break”, will the Premier League witness a break again as the new coronavirus strain wreaks havoc in the United Kingdom? The Premier League match between Everton and Manchester City was postponed at the last hour amid concerns of an outbreak within the City squad. The training ground of Manchester City has already been shut indefinitely with deep cleaning taking place after another round of testing on Tuesday. A number of positive COVID-19 cases at Fulham has also put their match against Tottenham Hotspur, on Wednesday, in doubt with a final call expected to be taken by the Premier League Board soon. Earlier in December, the match between Aston Villa and Newcastle United also suffered postponement. After postponing the match between Man City and Everton, the Premier League stated that decisions to rearrange games are only in "exceptional" circumstances and judged on "case-by-case basis". What do Premier League rules say about postponement? “Permission will not be granted to postpone a League Match where the applicant Club has 14 or more Players listed on its Squad List available.” Will the Premier League get postponed, again? Latest reports suggest that no discussions have taken place either formally or informally about a break and in all likelihood, matches will continue. However, the Premier League has ramped up the COVID-19 testing with two tests mandatory for all Premier League clubs from January. What have Premier League managers said? Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer: “It’s not something I’ve thought about a lot. I think our players have been really good in following protocols and rules. That’s part of the job here, that we as clubs follow the protocols given. I can’t see the benefit in having a circuit break, whatever it’s going to be called. “Because when are we going to play the games? We all know this year is so difficult, but I don’t think stopping the games is going to make a big, big change.” West Brom boss Sam Allardyce: “Everyone’s safety is more important than anything else. When I listen to the news the variant virus transmits quicker than the original virus [so] we can only do the right thing which is have a circuit break. “I am 66 years old and the last thing I want to do is catch Covid. I’m very concerned for myself and football in general. If that’s what needs to be done we need to do it. We had one positive this week and it seems to be creeping around no matter how hard we try.” Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo: “The rising of the cases is increasing massively over the country and we are not an exception. “Some things are impossible to avoid. If there’s a break coming, then people have to sit down and see if it’s for the better.” Brighton boss Graham Potter: “Whatever the people think is the right thing to do, for the health of our community, that’s the most important thing. Whatever is deemed right, that’s what we’ll do.” Burnley boss Sean Dyche: “We’ve got protocols in place and everyone has tried to align with the protocols. But that doesn’t stop everything. “I just hope it stays outside of football as best it can. If the numbers keep rising we’ll have to deal with that accordingly.” Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder: “We’ve lost five members of staff and some players as well. I think it’s the start of something. We’re going through the process and I’m doing the best I can to keep it away from the players. “But sometimes it’s virtually impossible. We’ve seen the rise in cases right the way through, so we’re just going to have to battle on.” Premier League COVID-19 tests results: Round 1: 31 Aug-6 Sep – 1,605 tested, with three testing positive. Round 2: 7-13 Sep – 2,131 tested, with four testing positive. Round 3: 14-20 Sep – 1,574 tested, with three testing positive. Round 4: 21-27 Sep – 1,595 tested, with 10 testing positive. Round 5: 28 Sep-4 Oct – 1,587 tested, with nine testing positive. Round 6: 5-11 Oct – 1,128 tested, with five testing positive. Round 7: 12-18 Oct – 1,575 tested, with eight testing positive. Round 8: 19-25 Oct – 1,609 tested, with two testing positive. Round 9: 26 Oct-1 Nov – 1,446 tested, with four testing positive. Round 10: 2-8 Nov – 1,646 tested, with four testing positive. Round 11: 9-15 Nov – 1,207 tested, with 16 testing positive. Round 12: 16-22 Nov – 1,530 tested, with eight testing positive. Round 13: 23-29 Nov – 1,381 tested, with 10 testing positive. Round 14: 30 Nov-6 Dec – 1,483 tested with 14 testing positive. Round 15: 7-13 Dec – 1,549 tested with six testing positive. Round 16: 14-20 Dec – 1,569 tested with seven testing positive. Round 17: 21-27 Dec – 1,479 tested with 18 testing positive.

Will the Premier League get suspended? Here's everything you need to know

Concerns continue to grow for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> after the English top-flight confirmed 18 positive COVID-19 cases in its latest round of testing. While the match between Everton and Manchester City was postponed due to COVID-19 outbreak withing the City squad, rest of the matches went ahead despite players and staff being tested positive for the dreaded virus.

West Bromwich Albion head coach Sam Allardyce has also revealed that the club had a positive coronavirus test this week while calling for ‘circuit-break’ to curb the rising cases within the English top-flight.

Moreover, the lower division leagues have been hit massively by COVID-19. The League One, in the 2020-21 season, witnessed 29 postponed matches, League Two 11 matches, Championship 4 matches and two matches in Premier League.

TRENDING |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-lionel-messis-reaction-after-disappointing-draw-against-eibar-goes-viral-353378" hreflang="en">WATCH- Lionel Messi's reaction after disappointing draw against Eibar goes viral!</a>

The Premier League announced its highest number of positive cases on Tuesday since it began weekly testing in May, with 18 out of 1,479 tests coming back positive.

Reportedly, the Premier League match between Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday is also in doubt due to positive cases in Fulham squad. 
While there are no plans for the Premier League to pause the current season, Allardyce, speaking after West Brom's 5-0 home loss to Leeds United, said: "Everyone's safety is more important than anything else.

"When I listen to the news the variant virus transmits quicker than the original virus [so] we can only do the right thing which is have a circuit break.

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"I am 66 years old and the last thing I want to do is catch Covid. I'm very concerned for myself and football in general. If that's what needs to be done we need to do it.

"We had one positive this week and it seems to be creeping around no matter how hard we try."

Concerns continue to grow for the Premier League after the English top-flight confirmed 18 positive COVID-19 cases in its latest round of testing. While the match between Everton and Manchester City was postponed due to COVID-19 outbreak withing the City squad, rest of the matches went ahead despite players and staff being tested positive for the dreaded virus.

Concerns continue to grow for the Premier League after the English top-flight confirmed 18 positive COVID-19 cases in its latest round of testing. While the match between Everton and Manchester City was postponed due to COVID-19 outbreak withing the City squad, rest of the matches went ahead despite players and staff being tested positive for the dreaded virus. West Bromwich Albion head coach Sam Allardyce has also revealed that the club had a positive coronavirus test this week while calling for ‘circuit-break’ to curb the rising cases within the English top-flight. Moreover, the lower division leagues have been hit massively by COVID-19. The League One, in the 2020-21 season, witnessed 29 postponed matches, League Two 11 matches, Championship 4 matches and two matches in Premier League. TRENDING | WATCH- Lionel Messi's reaction after disappointing draw against Eibar goes viral! The Premier League announced its highest number of positive cases on Tuesday since it began weekly testing in May, with 18 out of 1,479 tests coming back positive. Reportedly, the Premier League match between Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday is also in doubt due to positive cases in Fulham squad. While there are no plans for the Premier League to pause the current season, Allardyce, speaking after West Brom's 5-0 home loss to Leeds United, said: "Everyone's safety is more important than anything else. "When I listen to the news the variant virus transmits quicker than the original virus [so] we can only do the right thing which is have a circuit break. ALSO READ: Solskjaer sees Man Utd of old in late win over Wolves "I am 66 years old and the last thing I want to do is catch Covid. I'm very concerned for myself and football in general. If that's what needs to be done we need to do it. "We had one positive this week and it seems to be creeping around no matter how hard we try."

'I'm very concerned...' - West Brom's Sam Allardyce calls for 'circuit-break' in Premier League

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> on Tuesday confirmed that a total of 18 tests for COVID-19, out of 1479 players and club staff, returned positive between December 21 and 27. All the players or club staff, who have tested positive for coronavirus, will undergo a self-isolation period for 10 days.

The Premier League provided the information for the purposes of competition integrity and transparency.&nbsp;

The announcement by Premier League comes after the league match between Manchester City and Everton was postponed after reportedly five players and staff members tested positive for COVID-19. The list included first team players such as Kyle Walker and Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City.&nbsp;

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The 18 new positive reports for COVID-19 in Premier League is the highest since November 9-15 when as many as 16 tested positive for the virus. Premier League has been conducting tests for coronavirus regularly in a bid to safely conduct the English top-flight league.&nbsp;

It would be interesting to see what the Premier League decides in relation to the fate of the tournament considering the new strain has started to wreak havoc in parts of the United Kingdom.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-named-coach-of-the-century-beats-stiff-competition-from-zidane-alex-ferguson-352943" hreflang="en">Pep Guardiola named Coach of the Century, beats stiff competition from Zidane, Alex Ferguson</a>

<h2>Previous test results in Premier League:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Round 1: 31 Aug-6 Sep - 1,605 tested, with three testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 2: 7-13 Sep - 2,131 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 3: 14-20 Sep - 1,574 tested, with three testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 4: 21-27 Sep - 1,595 tested, with 10 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 5: 28 Sep-4 Oct - 1,587 tested, with nine testing positive.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Round 6: 5-11 Oct - 1,128 tested, with five testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 7: 12-18 Oct - 1,575 tested, with eight testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 8: 19-25 Oct - 1,609 tested, with two testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 9: 26 Oct-1 Nov - 1,446 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 10: 2-8 Nov - 1,646 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 11: 9-15 Nov - 1,207 tested, with 16 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 12: 16-22 Nov - 1,530 tested, with eight testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 13: 23-29 Nov - 1,381 tested, with 10 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 14: 30 Nov-6 Dec - 1,483 tested, with 14 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 15: 7-13 Dec - 1,549 tested, with 6 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 16: 14-20 Dec - 1,569 tested, with 7 testing positive. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

The Premier League on Tuesday confirmed that a total of 18 tests for COVID-19, out of 1479 players and club staff, returned positive between December 21 and 27. All the players or club staff, who have tested positive for coronavirus, will undergo a self-isolation period for 10 days.

The Premier League on Tuesday confirmed that a total of 18 tests for COVID-19, out of 1479 players and club staff, returned positive between December 21 and 27. All the players or club staff, who have tested positive for coronavirus, will undergo a self-isolation period for 10 days. The Premier League provided the information for the purposes of competition integrity and transparency. The announcement by Premier League comes after the league match between Manchester City and Everton was postponed after reportedly five players and staff members tested positive for COVID-19. The list included first team players such as Kyle Walker and Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City. ALSO READ: Chelsea fail to lift pressure on Lampard, Covid spike causes Man City postponement The 18 new positive reports for COVID-19 in Premier League is the highest since November 9-15 when as many as 16 tested positive for the virus. Premier League has been conducting tests for coronavirus regularly in a bid to safely conduct the English top-flight league. It would be interesting to see what the Premier League decides in relation to the fate of the tournament considering the new strain has started to wreak havoc in parts of the United Kingdom. ALSO READ: Pep Guardiola named Coach of the Century, beats stiff competition from Zidane, Alex Ferguson Previous test results in Premier League: Round 1: 31 Aug-6 Sep - 1,605 tested, with three testing positive. Round 2: 7-13 Sep - 2,131 tested, with four testing positive. Round 3: 14-20 Sep - 1,574 tested, with three testing positive. Round 4: 21-27 Sep - 1,595 tested, with 10 testing positive. Round 5: 28 Sep-4 Oct - 1,587 tested, with nine testing positive. Round 6: 5-11 Oct - 1,128 tested, with five testing positive. Round 7: 12-18 Oct - 1,575 tested, with eight testing positive. Round 8: 19-25 Oct - 1,609 tested, with two testing positive. Round 9: 26 Oct-1 Nov - 1,446 tested, with four testing positive. Round 10: 2-8 Nov - 1,646 tested, with four testing positive. Round 11: 9-15 Nov - 1,207 tested, with 16 testing positive. Round 12: 16-22 Nov - 1,530 tested, with eight testing positive. Round 13: 23-29 Nov - 1,381 tested, with 10 testing positive. Round 14: 30 Nov-6 Dec - 1,483 tested, with 14 testing positive. Round 15: 7-13 Dec - 1,549 tested, with 6 testing positive. Round 16: 14-20 Dec - 1,569 tested, with 7 testing positive.

Premier League: 18 new positive COVID-19 cases from latest round of testing

Eight new positive coronavirus cases have been found in the latest round of testing conducted by Premier League, England`s top-tier football tournament. 
 
In a statement, Premier League said on Monday that 1,530 players and club staff were tested from November 16 to 22 in the latest round. 
 
"The Premier League can today confirm that between Monday November 16 and Sunday November 22, 1,530 players and club staff were tested for Covid-19. Of these, there were eight new positive tests," the league said on Monday. 
 
The players or club staff who have tested positive will self-isolate for a period of 10 days. 
 
A total of 76 confirmed Covid-19 cases have been detected till now in 12 rounds of testing conducted by Premier League since August. 
 
&nbsp;

Eight new positive coronavirus cases have been found in the latest round of testing conducted by Premier League, England`s top-tier football tournament. In a statement, Premier League said on Monday that 1,530 players and club staff were tested from November 16 to 22 in the latest round.

Eight new positive coronavirus cases have been found in the latest round of testing conducted by Premier League, England`s top-tier football tournament. In a statement, Premier League said on Monday that 1,530 players and club staff were tested from November 16 to 22 in the latest round. "The Premier League can today confirm that between Monday November 16 and Sunday November 22, 1,530 players and club staff were tested for Covid-19. Of these, there were eight new positive tests," the league said on Monday. The players or club staff who have tested positive will self-isolate for a period of 10 days. A total of 76 confirmed Covid-19 cases have been detected till now in 12 rounds of testing conducted by Premier League since August.

Eight new Covid-19 cases found in latest round of testing: Premier League

No spitting and no handshakes -- the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> season resumes on Wednesday looking very different from three months ago.

Amid the coronavirus crisis, the Premier League have issued detailed guidance before the big kick-off, stating: "Strict protocols have been put in place to ensure that stadiums are as safe as possible for everybody present."

AFP Sport takes a look at the new rules in place:

<h2>Stadium safety</h2>

About 300 people will be allowed into stadiums for each of the remaining 92 matches of the season.&nbsp;

Grounds will be divided into three zones: red, amber and green.&nbsp;Each zone has unique protocols and procedures.&nbsp;

Only those who have undergone tests in the five days before a match can enter the red zone in any stadium, which includes the pitch, technical area, tunnel and dressing rooms.&nbsp;

Those individuals must have a "clinical passport" -- a bar code that shows their most recent test result is negative -– before being granted access.&nbsp;

<h2>Pre-match</h2>

Players and staff are required to undergo daily screening for the virus. Before leaving for a match, they must complete relevant checks for COVID-19 and report any symptoms.&nbsp;

Teams can travel to the stadium via car, coach, plane or train, but must do so in sterile environments and must observe social distancing.&nbsp;

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder, whose team visit Aston Villa in the opening game of the relaunch on Wednesday, said: "We are going on three buses. The main guys are on the first one, so you will see the team from who gets off first."

Players and staff will be given a sterile route from their vehicles to the dressing rooms, which must have enough space to allow for suitable social distancing. &nbsp;

Teams will be encouraged to stagger their use of changing rooms. Showers can be used, as long as individuals remain socially distanced.

Sheffield United will not use the away dressing room at Villa Park and have instead been allocated a press room and players' lounge to change in.

"We are changing in a big media room at Villa Park, not in the changing rooms and our players have to stay two metres apart when there is a break in play," Wilder said.

At some stadiums, teams will use different tunnels. Where there is one tunnel, players and match officials will stagger their journeys to and from the pitch.

<h2>Hygiene</h2>

Widespread disinfection will take place including of changing facilities, dugouts, matchballs, goalposts, corner flags and substitution boards.&nbsp;

People other than players and coaching staff on team benches must wear face coverings.

<h2>No handshakes</h2>

When teams line up for the Premier League anthem, players will now stand in a staggered formation.

The traditional handshakes between the two teams will no longer happen and there will also be no handshakes at the coin toss.&nbsp;

Trainers' benches will be expanded to enable social distancing during matches.

<h2>Spitting ban</h2>

Players have been told to maintain distancing during goal celebrations. No spitting or nose-clearing is allowed and players will use their own water bottles.

In the Bundesliga, Hertha Berlin defender Dedryck Boyata found himself in hot water last month after grabbing the face of team-mate Marko Grujic.

Boyata apologised, saying players had to "adapt" to the new rules.

Premier League players have also been told to avoid mass confrontations with opponents or match officials and to try to restrict interaction with opponents after the match.

No spitting and no handshakes -- the Premier League season resumes on Wednesday looking very different from three months ago. Amid the coronavirus crisis, the Premier League have issued detailed guidance before the big kick-off, stating: "Strict protocols have been put in place to ensure that stadiums are as safe as possible for everybody present.

No spitting and no handshakes -- the Premier League season resumes on Wednesday looking very different from three months ago. Amid the coronavirus crisis, the Premier League have issued detailed guidance before the big kick-off, stating: "Strict protocols have been put in place to ensure that stadiums are as safe as possible for everybody present." AFP Sport takes a look at the new rules in place: Stadium safety About 300 people will be allowed into stadiums for each of the remaining 92 matches of the season. Grounds will be divided into three zones: red, amber and green. Each zone has unique protocols and procedures. Only those who have undergone tests in the five days before a match can enter the red zone in any stadium, which includes the pitch, technical area, tunnel and dressing rooms. Those individuals must have a "clinical passport" -- a bar code that shows their most recent test result is negative -– before being granted access. Pre-match Players and staff are required to undergo daily screening for the virus. Before leaving for a match, they must complete relevant checks for COVID-19 and report any symptoms. Teams can travel to the stadium via car, coach, plane or train, but must do so in sterile environments and must observe social distancing. Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder, whose team visit Aston Villa in the opening game of the relaunch on Wednesday, said: "We are going on three buses. The main guys are on the first one, so you will see the team from who gets off first." Players and staff will be given a sterile route from their vehicles to the dressing rooms, which must have enough space to allow for suitable social distancing. Teams will be encouraged to stagger their use of changing rooms. Showers can be used, as long as individuals remain socially distanced. Sheffield United will not use the away dressing room at Villa Park and have instead been allocated a press room and players' lounge to change in. "We are changing in a big media room at Villa Park, not in the changing rooms and our players have to stay two metres apart when there is a break in play," Wilder said. At some stadiums, teams will use different tunnels. Where there is one tunnel, players and match officials will stagger their journeys to and from the pitch. Hygiene Widespread disinfection will take place including of changing facilities, dugouts, matchballs, goalposts, corner flags and substitution boards. People other than players and coaching staff on team benches must wear face coverings. No handshakes When teams line up for the Premier League anthem, players will now stand in a staggered formation. The traditional handshakes between the two teams will no longer happen and there will also be no handshakes at the coin toss. Trainers' benches will be expanded to enable social distancing during matches. Spitting ban Players have been told to maintain distancing during goal celebrations. No spitting or nose-clearing is allowed and players will use their own water bottles. In the Bundesliga, Hertha Berlin defender Dedryck Boyata found himself in hot water last month after grabbing the face of team-mate Marko Grujic. Boyata apologised, saying players had to "adapt" to the new rules. Premier League players have also been told to avoid mass confrontations with opponents or match officials and to try to restrict interaction with opponents after the match.

Premier League return: the rules

The Premier League has confirmed that there was one positive COVID-19 test from the latest round of testing, six days ahead of English top-flight football’s return after as many as 1213 players and staff from 20 clubs were tested on Monday and Tuesday. This was the seventh round of Premier League’s testing programme with only one positive outcome from the latest tests.&nbsp;

There were six positive cases from round one, two from two clubs in the next round, four from two clubs in the following round and none in fourth and fifth rounds. Hence, from the twice-weekly tests, a total of 14 positive cases have been confirmed out of 7,487 tests across the division.&nbsp;

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“The Premier League can today confirm that on Monday 8 June and Tuesday 9 June, 1,213 players and club staff were tested for COVID-19,” the Premier League said in a statement on Wednesday,” the league said in a statement.

“Of these, one has tested positive. The Premier League is providing this aggregated information for the purposes of competition integrity and transparency.

“No specific details as to clubs or individuals will be provided by the League and results will be made public after each round of testing.”

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The next set of results are likely to come on Saturday with the most-watched football league moving closer to the return.

Manchester City will take on Arsenal whereas Sheffield United and Aston Villa will lock horns when Premier League restarts on June 17.

The matches will be played behind closed doors, with all safety precautions as per Premier League ‘Project Restart’ protocols.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Premier League has confirmed that there was one positive COVID-19 test from the latest round of testing, six days ahead of English top-flight football’s return after as many as 1213 players and staff from 20 clubs were tested on Monday and Tuesday.

The Premier League has confirmed that there was one positive COVID-19 test from the latest round of testing, six days ahead of English top-flight football’s return after as many as 1213 players and staff from 20 clubs were tested on Monday and Tuesday. This was the seventh round of Premier League’s testing programme with only one positive outcome from the latest tests. There were six positive cases from round one, two from two clubs in the next round, four from two clubs in the following round and none in fourth and fifth rounds. Hence, from the twice-weekly tests, a total of 14 positive cases have been confirmed out of 7,487 tests across the division. ALSO READ: #BlackLivesMatter: Corner flags, jerseys share out anti-racism message as Bayern advance to German Cup final “The Premier League can today confirm that on Monday 8 June and Tuesday 9 June, 1,213 players and club staff were tested for COVID-19,” the Premier League said in a statement on Wednesday,” the league said in a statement. “Of these, one has tested positive. The Premier League is providing this aggregated information for the purposes of competition integrity and transparency. “No specific details as to clubs or individuals will be provided by the League and results will be made public after each round of testing.” ALSO READ: Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury: Financial terms agreed for all-British bout, expected to bag over £100m The next set of results are likely to come on Saturday with the most-watched football league moving closer to the return. Manchester City will take on Arsenal whereas Sheffield United and Aston Villa will lock horns when Premier League restarts on June 17. The matches will be played behind closed doors, with all safety precautions as per Premier League ‘Project Restart’ protocols.

Premier League: One new coronavirus case from 1213 tests

There have been no positive findings from the latest round of coronavirus testing carried out in the Premier League, the English top-flight announced on Saturday.

The fourth round of screening saw a total of 1,130 players and club staff tested, with the lack of any new cases bolstering the Premier League's plan to resume the season on June 17.

"The Premier League can today confirm that on Thursday 28 May and Friday 29 May, 1,130 players and club staff were tested for COVID-19," said a statement.

"Of these, zero have tested positive."

That means there have been just 12 positive cases from a combined total of 3,882 tests since Premier League players and club staff started being examined earlier this month.

There have been no positive findings from the latest round of coronavirus testing carried out in the Premier League, the English top-flight announced on Saturday.

There have been no positive findings from the latest round of coronavirus testing carried out in the Premier League, the English top-flight announced on Saturday. The fourth round of screening saw a total of 1,130 players and club staff tested, with the lack of any new cases bolstering the Premier League's plan to resume the season on June 17. "The Premier League can today confirm that on Thursday 28 May and Friday 29 May, 1,130 players and club staff were tested for COVID-19," said a statement. "Of these, zero have tested positive." That means there have been just 12 positive cases from a combined total of 3,882 tests since Premier League players and club staff started being examined earlier this month.

No positives from latest Premier League virus tests

Brighton chief executive Paul Barber on Sunday revealed a third player at the Premier League club has tested positive for the coronavirus, raising fresh concerns about the attempt to finish the English top-flight season.

The unnamed player was tested on Saturday and will self-isolate for 14 days while he recovers from the virus.

The rest of Brighton's squad will continue to train at home and in solo sessions at the team's training ground.

Two other Brighton players, who were not named, contracted the virus several weeks ago and have reportedly recovered.

"Unfortunately we have had a third player test positive just yesterday," Barber told Sky Sports News.

"Despite all the measures we have all been taking over the last few weeks, when the players haven't been involved in taking any significant training at all, we have still suffered another player testing positive for the virus.

"There are concerns and I think it is normal for all clubs to have those concerns.

"We want to make sure we do all that we can so the protocols that are put into place are safe and secure and mitigate the risk."

In Germany, Bundesliga 2 side Dynamo Dresden have put their entire squad and coaching staff into two-week isolation after two players tested positive for coronavirus.

The Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2 are due to restart on May 16.

Brighton's latest positive test comes ahead of Monday's Premier League meeting, where clubs are expected to debate the plan to complete the season behind closed doors at neutral venues and vote on whether player contracts will be extended until the end of the rescheduled campaign.

The Premier League would like to restart the season in June and play the remaining 92 fixtures by August.

Barber has been critical of the neutral venue idea, insisting that the campaign should still be played on a home-and-away basis as Brighton battle to avoid relegation.

Norwich, Watford and Aston Villa were in the relegation zone when the Premier League was suspended because of the health crisis on March 13.

<h2>- 'Self-interest' -</h2>

Brighton have received criticism for their vocal stance, but Barber insists all clubs will act with a degree of self-interest.

"People will accuse us of self-interest, I totally understand that, but at this stage of the season there is self-interest at every level of the table," he added.

"There is as much self-interest at the top as there is at the bottom, there is as much self-interest in the middle as there is at the bottom.

"Everyone has different objectives for the season and we are all looking to play out the season, if it is safe to do so.

"We really do want to play and we want to make sure the competition stays as fair as it can be despite these exceptional circumstances that we are facing."

Aston Villa and Watford have joined Brighton in speaking out against the neutral stadium plan.

But Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish has backed the 20 clubs to eventually come to a consensus.

"There are no easy answers, we have to work through it as a collective and I think we will and come out with a consensus in the end," he told the BBC.

"(The meeting) is another part of the journey in trying to get football back. We would be derelict in our duty if we did not find a way for the game to come back.

"It may prove beyond us, we have huge challenges in order to get it back to complete the season but we are planning on doing so."

Brighton chief executive Paul Barber on Sunday revealed a third player at the Premier League club has tested positive for the coronavirus, raising fresh concerns about the attempt to finish the English top-flight season.

Brighton chief executive Paul Barber on Sunday revealed a third player at the Premier League club has tested positive for the coronavirus, raising fresh concerns about the attempt to finish the English top-flight season. The unnamed player was tested on Saturday and will self-isolate for 14 days while he recovers from the virus. The rest of Brighton's squad will continue to train at home and in solo sessions at the team's training ground. Two other Brighton players, who were not named, contracted the virus several weeks ago and have reportedly recovered. "Unfortunately we have had a third player test positive just yesterday," Barber told Sky Sports News. "Despite all the measures we have all been taking over the last few weeks, when the players haven't been involved in taking any significant training at all, we have still suffered another player testing positive for the virus. "There are concerns and I think it is normal for all clubs to have those concerns. "We want to make sure we do all that we can so the protocols that are put into place are safe and secure and mitigate the risk." In Germany, Bundesliga 2 side Dynamo Dresden have put their entire squad and coaching staff into two-week isolation after two players tested positive for coronavirus. The Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2 are due to restart on May 16. Brighton's latest positive test comes ahead of Monday's Premier League meeting, where clubs are expected to debate the plan to complete the season behind closed doors at neutral venues and vote on whether player contracts will be extended until the end of the rescheduled campaign. The Premier League would like to restart the season in June and play the remaining 92 fixtures by August. Barber has been critical of the neutral venue idea, insisting that the campaign should still be played on a home-and-away basis as Brighton battle to avoid relegation. Norwich, Watford and Aston Villa were in the relegation zone when the Premier League was suspended because of the health crisis on March 13. - 'Self-interest' - Brighton have received criticism for their vocal stance, but Barber insists all clubs will act with a degree of self-interest. "People will accuse us of self-interest, I totally understand that, but at this stage of the season there is self-interest at every level of the table," he added. "There is as much self-interest at the top as there is at the bottom, there is as much self-interest in the middle as there is at the bottom. "Everyone has different objectives for the season and we are all looking to play out the season, if it is safe to do so. "We really do want to play and we want to make sure the competition stays as fair as it can be despite these exceptional circumstances that we are facing." Aston Villa and Watford have joined Brighton in speaking out against the neutral stadium plan. But Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish has backed the 20 clubs to eventually come to a consensus. "There are no easy answers, we have to work through it as a collective and I think we will and come out with a consensus in the end," he told the BBC. "(The meeting) is another part of the journey in trying to get football back. We would be derelict in our duty if we did not find a way for the game to come back. "It may prove beyond us, we have huge challenges in order to get it back to complete the season but we are planning on doing so."

Third Brighton player tests positive for coronavirus: club

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne&nbsp;believes the Premier League season will be finished despite the coronavirus pandemic "because the financial aspect is far too important".

"My feeling is that we may be able to train again within two weeks. The government&nbsp;wants to restart football as soon as possible to give people something. I think this season will be finished," De Bruyne told Belgian daily Het Laatste Nieuws.

"The financial aspect is far too important in the Premier League. If the season is not finished, it will cause serious problems," he added.

Clubs were presented with the league's "Project Restart" plans at a meeting on Friday and were told the remaining 92 matches of the 2019-2020 season must be played at neutral venues.

De Bruyne also said he was optimistic about City's participation in next season's Champions League. UEFA has banned the club from European competition for the next two years for "serious breaches" of financial fair-play rules.

"The club told us they're going to appeal and that they're almost certain to get their way. I'm waiting to see what happens, but I trust my club," said De Bruyne.

The 28-year-old Belgium international admitted he would be forced to consider his City future if the ban was upheld.

"Once we know more, I will make a decision. Two years without playing in Europe would be long but in the case of one year I might see," he said.&nbsp;

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne believes the Premier League season will be finished despite the coronavirus pandemic "because the financial aspect is far too important".

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne believes the Premier League season will be finished despite the coronavirus pandemic "because the financial aspect is far too important". "My feeling is that we may be able to train again within two weeks. The government wants to restart football as soon as possible to give people something. I think this season will be finished," De Bruyne told Belgian daily Het Laatste Nieuws. "The financial aspect is far too important in the Premier League. If the season is not finished, it will cause serious problems," he added. Clubs were presented with the league's "Project Restart" plans at a meeting on Friday and were told the remaining 92 matches of the 2019-2020 season must be played at neutral venues. De Bruyne also said he was optimistic about City's participation in next season's Champions League. UEFA has banned the club from European competition for the next two years for "serious breaches" of financial fair-play rules. "The club told us they're going to appeal and that they're almost certain to get their way. I'm waiting to see what happens, but I trust my club," said De Bruyne. The 28-year-old Belgium international admitted he would be forced to consider his City future if the ban was upheld. "Once we know more, I will make a decision. Two years without playing in Europe would be long but in the case of one year I might see," he said.

Kevin De Bruyne believes Premier League will play to conclusion

The FA, Premier League and UEFA are all gearing up for the return of live football after the postponement of almost all the leagues and tournaments amid COVID-19 pandemic. However, as former Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur director of football Damien Comolli reckons players will face an insurance issue if they contract coronavirus after the resumption of play.&nbsp;

Premier League is determined to finish the halted 2019/20 season, however, players can raise some valid questions in relation to their safety and well-being given they don’t have COVID-19 clause in their current insurances.&nbsp;

“Sorry if I’m being dramatic but let’s assume the Premier League starts and suddenly (a player) catches the virus and then dies or gets severe lung damage and he can’t play football anymore, what’s going to happen?” Comolli said a leading British news portal.

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“Is the player going to say my contract ended on June 30, you forced me to play?”

Comolli further said that the transfer window could be extremely different with drop-in players’ price inevitable. He reckons there will be more loan and swap deals after the summer transfer window opens.

“An agent was saying the other day only three clubs in the Premier League will be able to spend money. If that’s the case I think the transfer window will be very different.

“We might see swaps, we might see loans and we are going to a see a massive decrease in transfer fees and activity – at least transfers involving money.

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“The more this crisis goes on and the clubs are in a difficult situation financially, the first thing that will be impacted will be player remuneration and the second thing will be transfer fees.

“I think it’ll be very difficult not to finish the season for a lot of different reasons, one is financial but as an industry football has a duty to entertain.

Comolli is of the view that the entire year of 2020 could be played behind closed doors amid the COVID-19 pandemic while adding that resumption of live football would be something positive for everyone.

“Now it is not the right thing to talk about it but we have a duty to fans, they want something else at night or during the day to think about, other than the virus and the issues. I think it’d be something positive.

“Personally I wouldn’t be surprised if we couldn’t play with any fans until the end of 2020.” 
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The FA, Premier League and UEFA are all gearing up for the return of live football after the postponement of almost all the leagues and tournaments amid COVID-19 pandemic.

The FA, Premier League and UEFA are all gearing up for the return of live football after the postponement of almost all the leagues and tournaments amid COVID-19 pandemic. However, as former Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur director of football Damien Comolli reckons players will face an insurance issue if they contract coronavirus after the resumption of play. Premier League is determined to finish the halted 2019/20 season, however, players can raise some valid questions in relation to their safety and well-being given they don’t have COVID-19 clause in their current insurances. “Sorry if I’m being dramatic but let’s assume the Premier League starts and suddenly (a player) catches the virus and then dies or gets severe lung damage and he can’t play football anymore, what’s going to happen?” Comolli said a leading British news portal. ALSO READ: Resumption of Champions League in August; postponement of 2020/21 UCL season likely: Reports “Is the player going to say my contract ended on June 30, you forced me to play?” Comolli further said that the transfer window could be extremely different with drop-in players’ price inevitable. He reckons there will be more loan and swap deals after the summer transfer window opens. “An agent was saying the other day only three clubs in the Premier League will be able to spend money. If that’s the case I think the transfer window will be very different. “We might see swaps, we might see loans and we are going to a see a massive decrease in transfer fees and activity – at least transfers involving money. ALSO READ: ICC unlikely to take call on T20 World Cup before August “The more this crisis goes on and the clubs are in a difficult situation financially, the first thing that will be impacted will be player remuneration and the second thing will be transfer fees. “I think it’ll be very difficult not to finish the season for a lot of different reasons, one is financial but as an industry football has a duty to entertain. Comolli is of the view that the entire year of 2020 could be played behind closed doors amid the COVID-19 pandemic while adding that resumption of live football would be something positive for everyone. “Now it is not the right thing to talk about it but we have a duty to fans, they want something else at night or during the day to think about, other than the virus and the issues. I think it’d be something positive. “Personally I wouldn’t be surprised if we couldn’t play with any fans until the end of 2020.”

'What if player catches virus?' - Insurance issues likely to be stumbling block before resumption of Premier League

Premier League clubs will ask players to take a combination of pay cuts and deferrals amounting to 30 percent of their salary due to the financial crisis caused by coronavirus, the league said in a statement on Friday.

The league's highly-paid players have come under increasing pressure to take pay cuts from government officials in recent days.

"Premier League clubs unanimously agreed to consult their players regarding a combination of conditional reductions and deferrals amounting to 30 per cent of total annual remuneration," the Premier League said in a statement.

The Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) will meet with league and club officials to discuss the proposal on Saturday.

A meeting between the 20 English top-flight clubs also agreed to indefinitely extend the suspension of the season until it is "safe and appropriate" for football to return.

The clubs are desperate for the season to be finished if possible to avoid the potential of having to reimburse broadcasters a reported £760 million ($942 million) if they fail to fulfil fixtures for television contracts.

However, despite reports of creative ways to finish the campaign with matches behind closed doors and players quarantined in World Cup style training camps, the clubs insist they will follow government advice on when it is safe for matches to return.

"Any return to play&nbsp;will only be with the full support of&nbsp;government and when medical guidance allows," the statement added.

Despite their own financial troubles, Premier League clubs agreed to provide a £125 million fund for the English Football League and National League to help those further down the football pyramid and a £20 million charitable donation to help those affected by coronavirus.

Premier League clubs will ask players to take a combination of pay cuts and deferrals amounting to 30 percent of their salary due to the financial crisis caused by coronavirus, the league said in a statement on Friday.

Premier League clubs will ask players to take a combination of pay cuts and deferrals amounting to 30 percent of their salary due to the financial crisis caused by coronavirus, the league said in a statement on Friday. The league's highly-paid players have come under increasing pressure to take pay cuts from government officials in recent days. "Premier League clubs unanimously agreed to consult their players regarding a combination of conditional reductions and deferrals amounting to 30 per cent of total annual remuneration," the Premier League said in a statement. The Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) will meet with league and club officials to discuss the proposal on Saturday. A meeting between the 20 English top-flight clubs also agreed to indefinitely extend the suspension of the season until it is "safe and appropriate" for football to return. The clubs are desperate for the season to be finished if possible to avoid the potential of having to reimburse broadcasters a reported £760 million ($942 million) if they fail to fulfil fixtures for television contracts. However, despite reports of creative ways to finish the campaign with matches behind closed doors and players quarantined in World Cup style training camps, the clubs insist they will follow government advice on when it is safe for matches to return. "Any return to play will only be with the full support of government and when medical guidance allows," the statement added. Despite their own financial troubles, Premier League clubs agreed to provide a £125 million fund for the English Football League and National League to help those further down the football pyramid and a £20 million charitable donation to help those affected by coronavirus.

Premier League clubs lobby players to take 30 percent pay hit

Premier League clubs have been accused of living in a "moral vacuum", with players urged to take their share of the financial hit from the coronavirus pandemic as non-playing staff begin to feel the pinch.

Last year's Champions League finalists Tottenham as well as Newcastle and Norwich have faced a backlash for using the British government's furlough scheme, which will guarantee 80 percent of employees' income up to a maximum of £2,500 ($3,000) a month.

"It sticks in the throat," said lawmaker Julian Knight, who chairs the Commons Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee, referring to the use of public funds to prop up wage bills.

"This exposes the crazy economics in English football and the moral vacuum at its centre."

The Times said the elite should not be a "drain on the exchequer".

"(The) furlough scheme.is for clubs lower down the pyramid enduring the cash-flow crisis without gate receipts, not by the likes of Spurs and Newcastle United," the paper said in a comment piece.

That £2,500 sum would be a drop in the ocean for many Premier League stars, yet there has so far been no agreement on wage cuts or deferrals for players, unlike the situation at other top European clubs such as Juventus and Barcelona.

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy said he hoped discussions between the Premier League and players' and managers' representatives would "result in players and coaches doing their bit for the football eco-system".

Levy is in the firing line despite taking a 20 percent cut in salary for the next two months.

On Tuesday he announced a 20 percent cut for 550 non-playing staff on the same day it was revealed he was paid £7 million last season, including a £3 million bonus for the completion of the club's new stadium, which ran well over time and budget.

Players at Barcelona have taken a 70 percent pay cut during Spain's state of emergency and will make additional contributions to ensure other employees receive full wages.

The squad of Italian champions Juventus, including Cristiano Ronaldo, have agreed to have their wages stopped for four months while players at German giants Bayern Munich accepted a 20 percent pay cut.

"Clearly, when players at Barcelona, or Juventus voluntarily, or some German clubs voluntarily enter into these agreements with their clubs, then good on them," said FIFPro general secretary Jonas Baer-Hoffmann.

"Where the players have the means and they step forward I think that shows very much that they understand what is happening right now and frankly we will be seeing more of that."

The chasm in player earnings between the top end of the game and the lower leagues, and even within the same clubs, complicates the role of players' unions in finding common ground.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan told the BBC that top-flight players should take the hit.

He said: "Highly paid football players are people who can carry the greatest burden and they should be the first one to, with respect, sacrifice their salary, rather than the person selling the programme or the person who does catering."

Players do not want to be the fall guys in a crisis only for clubs to behave irresponsibly when their income returns.

"If a club is doing deferrals then the regulations state that they would be embargoed from signing any players," said PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor.

"It's ridiculous to have clubs deferring their obligations to players and then making big-money transfer signings."

Transfer talk tends to fill the void during the summer football break, but that is far from the minds of most executives just trying to ensure their clubs are still standing in a few months' time.

"When I read or hear stories about player transfers this summer like nothing has happened, people need to wake up to the enormity of what is happening around us," said Levy.

Premier League clubs have been accused of living in a "moral vacuum", with players urged to take their share of the financial hit from the coronavirus pandemic as non-playing staff begin to feel the pinch.

Premier League clubs have been accused of living in a "moral vacuum", with players urged to take their share of the financial hit from the coronavirus pandemic as non-playing staff begin to feel the pinch. Last year's Champions League finalists Tottenham as well as Newcastle and Norwich have faced a backlash for using the British government's furlough scheme, which will guarantee 80 percent of employees' income up to a maximum of £2,500 ($3,000) a month. "It sticks in the throat," said lawmaker Julian Knight, who chairs the Commons Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee, referring to the use of public funds to prop up wage bills. "This exposes the crazy economics in English football and the moral vacuum at its centre." The Times said the elite should not be a "drain on the exchequer". "(The) furlough scheme.is for clubs lower down the pyramid enduring the cash-flow crisis without gate receipts, not by the likes of Spurs and Newcastle United," the paper said in a comment piece. That £2,500 sum would be a drop in the ocean for many Premier League stars, yet there has so far been no agreement on wage cuts or deferrals for players, unlike the situation at other top European clubs such as Juventus and Barcelona. Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy said he hoped discussions between the Premier League and players' and managers' representatives would "result in players and coaches doing their bit for the football eco-system". Levy is in the firing line despite taking a 20 percent cut in salary for the next two months. On Tuesday he announced a 20 percent cut for 550 non-playing staff on the same day it was revealed he was paid £7 million last season, including a £3 million bonus for the completion of the club's new stadium, which ran well over time and budget. Players at Barcelona have taken a 70 percent pay cut during Spain's state of emergency and will make additional contributions to ensure other employees receive full wages. The squad of Italian champions Juventus, including Cristiano Ronaldo, have agreed to have their wages stopped for four months while players at German giants Bayern Munich accepted a 20 percent pay cut. "Clearly, when players at Barcelona, or Juventus voluntarily, or some German clubs voluntarily enter into these agreements with their clubs, then good on them," said FIFPro general secretary Jonas Baer-Hoffmann. "Where the players have the means and they step forward I think that shows very much that they understand what is happening right now and frankly we will be seeing more of that." The chasm in player earnings between the top end of the game and the lower leagues, and even within the same clubs, complicates the role of players' unions in finding common ground. London Mayor Sadiq Khan told the BBC that top-flight players should take the hit. He said: "Highly paid football players are people who can carry the greatest burden and they should be the first one to, with respect, sacrifice their salary, rather than the person selling the programme or the person who does catering." Players do not want to be the fall guys in a crisis only for clubs to behave irresponsibly when their income returns. "If a club is doing deferrals then the regulations state that they would be embargoed from signing any players," said PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor. "It's ridiculous to have clubs deferring their obligations to players and then making big-money transfer signings." Transfer talk tends to fill the void during the summer football break, but that is far from the minds of most executives just trying to ensure their clubs are still standing in a few months' time. "When I read or hear stories about player transfers this summer like nothing has happened, people need to wake up to the enormity of what is happening around us," said Levy.

Premier League accused of 'moral vacuum' as clubs cut staff wages

England captain Harry Kane said the Premier League season should be cancelled if it cannot be completed by the end of June because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The English top-flight is currently suspended until at least April 30 due to the COVID-19 outbreak, with a likely further delay to be announced soon.

There is no clear idea about when or if football will be able to resume, but Euro 2020 has been cancelled, which opens a window to bring domestic seasons to a conclusion in the summer.

But Tottenham striker Kane does not want Premier League chiefs to let the current campaign go past June or even the start of what would be the 2020-21 season in August, as has been suggested in some quarters.

"I know the Premier League will do everything they can to finish the season, and that they are looking at every option possible," Kane said in an Instagram Live conversation with former Liverpool star Jamie Redknapp."I think, for me, we do need to try to finish the season. But there needs to be a point where enough is enough.

"Playing into July or August and pushing next season back I don't see too much benefit in that. But obviously I don't know too much about behind the scenes and financially.

"Probably the limit for me is the end of June. If the season's not completed by the end of June we need to look at the options and just look forward to next season." Premier League matches could potentially be staged behind closed doors in a bid to complete this campaign once the current lockdown in Britain is over.

Kane does not think dragging out the season will help anyone though, especially if it delays the next term.

"The further this season is pushed on, it would have such a big knock-on effect for next season, with the Euros in 2021, and even World Cup 2022. But that's just my opinion," he said.

"Football is secondary at the moment. I know there still have to be plans in place, and I'm sure everyone is trying to do that.

"All that is out of my hands though, there's nothing I can do personally, so from my point of view we've just got to wait and see what happens.

Hopefully this clears up as soon as possible, and we can try to get back to normal."

England captain Harry Kane said the Premier League season should be cancelled if it cannot be completed by the end of June because of the coronavirus pandemic. The English top-flight is currently suspended until at least April 30 due to the COVID-19 outbreak, with a likely further delay to be announced soon.

England captain Harry Kane said the Premier League season should be cancelled if it cannot be completed by the end of June because of the coronavirus pandemic. The English top-flight is currently suspended until at least April 30 due to the COVID-19 outbreak, with a likely further delay to be announced soon. There is no clear idea about when or if football will be able to resume, but Euro 2020 has been cancelled, which opens a window to bring domestic seasons to a conclusion in the summer. But Tottenham striker Kane does not want Premier League chiefs to let the current campaign go past June or even the start of what would be the 2020-21 season in August, as has been suggested in some quarters. "I know the Premier League will do everything they can to finish the season, and that they are looking at every option possible," Kane said in an Instagram Live conversation with former Liverpool star Jamie Redknapp."I think, for me, we do need to try to finish the season. But there needs to be a point where enough is enough. "Playing into July or August and pushing next season back I don't see too much benefit in that. But obviously I don't know too much about behind the scenes and financially. "Probably the limit for me is the end of June. If the season's not completed by the end of June we need to look at the options and just look forward to next season." Premier League matches could potentially be staged behind closed doors in a bid to complete this campaign once the current lockdown in Britain is over. Kane does not think dragging out the season will help anyone though, especially if it delays the next term. "The further this season is pushed on, it would have such a big knock-on effect for next season, with the Euros in 2021, and even World Cup 2022. But that's just my opinion," he said. "Football is secondary at the moment. I know there still have to be plans in place, and I'm sure everyone is trying to do that. "All that is out of my hands though, there's nothing I can do personally, so from my point of view we've just got to wait and see what happens. Hopefully this clears up as soon as possible, and we can try to get back to normal."

Scrap season if it can't be finished by end of June says, Harry Kane

England's Premier League, Professional Footballers' Association and Football League are steadying themselves for some "difficult decisions" amid the coronavirus outbreak as they try to see if there is a way of restarting the season.

 
The three organisations all met on Friday to examine the financial impact of suspending the season, with Britain as a whole in a state of lockdown.

 
"The Premier League, EFL and PFA met today and discussed the growing seriousness of the COVID-19 pandemic," they said in a joint statement.

 
"It was stressed that the thoughts of all three organisations continue to be with everyone affected by the virus.

 
"The Premier League, EFL and PFA agreed that difficult decisions will have to be taken in order to mitigate the economic impact of the current suspension of professional football in England and agreed to work together to arrive at shared solutions."

 
Some clubs have asked players to defer up to half their wages, while players at Championship leaders Leeds, pushing for promotion to the lucrative Premier League, have volunteered for a wage deferral.

 
The governing bodies are set for more talks next week as they try to draw up a unified plan.

 
Last week saw the projected restart of the season pushed &nbsp;back until April 30, and that date has not moved.

 
"The leagues will not recommence until April 30 at the earliest. They will only do so when it is safe and conditions allow," added the statement.

 
"Further meetings will take place next week with a view to formulating a joint plan to deal with the difficult circumstances facing the leagues, their clubs, players, staff and fans."

 
Meanwhile a spokesperson for the Football Association insisted they had no regrets about their announcement earlier this week that saw a host of lower division leagues declared null and void because of the coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

 
"The decision taken to end the 2019/20 season across Steps 3-7 of the National League System, the women's football pyramid and the wider grassroots game was made by committee representatives for the respective leagues, and was supported by the FA Board and the FA Women's Board," the spokesperson said.

 
"It will now go to the FA Council for ratification. We fully support the decision they came to during these challenging and unprecedented circumstances for English football."

England's Premier League, Professional Footballers' Association and Football League are steadying themselves for some "difficult decisions" amid the coronavirus outbreak as they try to see if there is a way of restarting the season.

England's Premier League, Professional Footballers' Association and Football League are steadying themselves for some "difficult decisions" amid the coronavirus outbreak as they try to see if there is a way of restarting the season. The three organisations all met on Friday to examine the financial impact of suspending the season, with Britain as a whole in a state of lockdown. "The Premier League, EFL and PFA met today and discussed the growing seriousness of the COVID-19 pandemic," they said in a joint statement. "It was stressed that the thoughts of all three organisations continue to be with everyone affected by the virus. "The Premier League, EFL and PFA agreed that difficult decisions will have to be taken in order to mitigate the economic impact of the current suspension of professional football in England and agreed to work together to arrive at shared solutions." Some clubs have asked players to defer up to half their wages, while players at Championship leaders Leeds, pushing for promotion to the lucrative Premier League, have volunteered for a wage deferral. The governing bodies are set for more talks next week as they try to draw up a unified plan. Last week saw the projected restart of the season pushed back until April 30, and that date has not moved. "The leagues will not recommence until April 30 at the earliest. They will only do so when it is safe and conditions allow," added the statement. "Further meetings will take place next week with a view to formulating a joint plan to deal with the difficult circumstances facing the leagues, their clubs, players, staff and fans." Meanwhile a spokesperson for the Football Association insisted they had no regrets about their announcement earlier this week that saw a host of lower division leagues declared null and void because of the coronavirus outbreak. "The decision taken to end the 2019/20 season across Steps 3-7 of the National League System, the women's football pyramid and the wider grassroots game was made by committee representatives for the respective leagues, and was supported by the FA Board and the FA Women's Board," the spokesperson said. "It will now go to the FA Council for ratification. We fully support the decision they came to during these challenging and unprecedented circumstances for English football."

English football chiefs set for 'difficult' coronavirus decisions

Forced into lockdown by the coronavirus, English teams outside the lucrative Premier League are facing an unprecedented period of financial uncertainty.

Championship, League One and League Two matches will not resume until April 30 at the earliest and even that date looks optimistic given the chaos caused by the pandemic.

A grim reality is taking hold in boardrooms around the country and some teams fear they could be forced out of business if football doesn't return until after the summer.

Aware of the growing panic, the Football League agreed a £50 million ($58 million) relief package, based on an early payment of bonuses, television money and an interest-free loan, to assist financially stricken clubs.

But reports this week claimed that will only be enough to tide clubs over for the next four weeks.

Cambridge chief executive officer Ian Mather admits the rescue package may not be enough, with the nightmare prospect of having to lay off staff a possibility.

"These are unprecedented times for all of us in so many different ways," Mather said.

"One of the most concerning features of the situation for everyone is that there is no clarity as to when it will end.

"This (rescue package) is welcome news but the amount we can access is relatively small and it is far from a complete answer to the financial problem we are facing.

"We are looking at ways of reducing our cost base and this will include making some extremely difficult decisions when it comes to our staff."

Without matchday revenue, it is likely that some clubs will ask their players to accept wage cuts if the lockdown continues into the summer.

In Scotland, top-flight outfit Hearts have already told their players and staff to take a 50 percent wage cut in a bid to stay afloat.

<h2>- 'Hit hard' -</h2>

There could be aid on the horizon if television broadcaster Sky Sports are willing to release some of the £119 million they are due to play the Football League next season.

But that remains uncertain and, for now, fear is the over-riding mood across the English game.

Steve Thompson, managing director of Dagenham, believes the fifth tier National League will need a bailout from the British government to survive.

Thompson said clubs in the National League will, between them, require between £15 million and £20 million to keep running and revealed talks are ongoing with the Football Association.

"It is going to require government help. The biggest worry is that so many non-league clubs, they are integral parts of their community. It worries me if these clubs are lost, what will happen going forward," Thompson said.

"There needs to be a concentrated effort. I don't think we can expect a bailout from the Premier League or FA, so it needs to be government led."

It may not be only non-league and lower league teams in England who feel the pinch, with Championship sides Charlton and Blackburn both having endured financial difficulties before the virus.

Millwall are one of the smaller teams in the second tier, with their 13,734 average gate, ranked 18th among the 24 clubs.

The south London side's chief executive Steve Kavanagh said they have already been wounded by the sudden halt to the season.

"We're like all other businesses, we've been hit hard, but our income stream just stopped overnight," Kavanagh said.

"Like everybody else, it will have impacts on us. I'm not going to shy away from that. But hopefully if we can all pull together we can find a way through.&nbsp;

"We've got an owner who's been around a long time and I'm sure will help the club as best he can."

Forced into lockdown by the coronavirus, English teams outside the lucrative Premier League are facing an unprecedented period of financial uncertainty. Championship, League One and League Two matches will not resume until April 30 at the earliest and even that date looks optimistic given the chaos caused by the pandemic.

Forced into lockdown by the coronavirus, English teams outside the lucrative Premier League are facing an unprecedented period of financial uncertainty. Championship, League One and League Two matches will not resume until April 30 at the earliest and even that date looks optimistic given the chaos caused by the pandemic. A grim reality is taking hold in boardrooms around the country and some teams fear they could be forced out of business if football doesn't return until after the summer. Aware of the growing panic, the Football League agreed a £50 million ($58 million) relief package, based on an early payment of bonuses, television money and an interest-free loan, to assist financially stricken clubs. But reports this week claimed that will only be enough to tide clubs over for the next four weeks. Cambridge chief executive officer Ian Mather admits the rescue package may not be enough, with the nightmare prospect of having to lay off staff a possibility. "These are unprecedented times for all of us in so many different ways," Mather said. "One of the most concerning features of the situation for everyone is that there is no clarity as to when it will end. "This (rescue package) is welcome news but the amount we can access is relatively small and it is far from a complete answer to the financial problem we are facing. "We are looking at ways of reducing our cost base and this will include making some extremely difficult decisions when it comes to our staff." Without matchday revenue, it is likely that some clubs will ask their players to accept wage cuts if the lockdown continues into the summer. In Scotland, top-flight outfit Hearts have already told their players and staff to take a 50 percent wage cut in a bid to stay afloat. - 'Hit hard' - There could be aid on the horizon if television broadcaster Sky Sports are willing to release some of the £119 million they are due to play the Football League next season. But that remains uncertain and, for now, fear is the over-riding mood across the English game. Steve Thompson, managing director of Dagenham, believes the fifth tier National League will need a bailout from the British government to survive. Thompson said clubs in the National League will, between them, require between £15 million and £20 million to keep running and revealed talks are ongoing with the Football Association. "It is going to require government help. The biggest worry is that so many non-league clubs, they are integral parts of their community. It worries me if these clubs are lost, what will happen going forward," Thompson said. "There needs to be a concentrated effort. I don't think we can expect a bailout from the Premier League or FA, so it needs to be government led." It may not be only non-league and lower league teams in England who feel the pinch, with Championship sides Charlton and Blackburn both having endured financial difficulties before the virus. Millwall are one of the smaller teams in the second tier, with their 13,734 average gate, ranked 18th among the 24 clubs. The south London side's chief executive Steve Kavanagh said they have already been wounded by the sudden halt to the season. "We're like all other businesses, we've been hit hard, but our income stream just stopped overnight," Kavanagh said. "Like everybody else, it will have impacts on us. I'm not going to shy away from that. But hopefully if we can all pull together we can find a way through. "We've got an owner who's been around a long time and I'm sure will help the club as best he can."

Virus chaos leaves English clubs fearing for their future