Manchester United vs Brentford off as COVID cases rise

Manchester United‘s Premier League game against Brentford has been postponed after the Red Devils recorded a number of positive COVID tests, that involved members of the first-team staff and playing squad.

The league came to the decision “following guidance from medical advisers due to the exceptional circumstances” of the outbreak within the United camp, with it being rumoured that some of those with positive tests are key members of the first-team.

On Monday, United released a statement announcing that they had closed their training ground, Carrington, for 24 hours in the wake of the cases.

The postponement of the fixture comes after the league had to postpone Tottenham Hotspurs game against Brighton Hove & Albion, after the London club had an outbreak that caused them to miss their Europa League class against French side Rennes, a game UEFA said will not be played.

Leicester City are also thought to be missing players through positive COVID tests, as many of their squad did not travel to their midweek fixture against Napoli. Though not thought to be many players, the Foxes could be without a few for the next two games.

Aston Villa, Norwich City and Brighton, have also confirmed positive tests.

In the past week, the Premier League stated it had recorded 42 positive COVID tests, the highest in a seven-day period since January 2021.

Following the return of stricter government guidelines, the league said testing, in particular, PCR testing would increase.

"“We will continue to work closely with the government, local authorities and supporter groups, while being responsive to any future changes to national or local guidance.” the Premier League said (via BBC Sport)."

It seems almost certain more games will find themselves pushed back, as we enter the extremely busy festive period. With COVID cases on the rise, and the games coming thick and fast, the biggest hope will be that we don’t see empty stadiums once again, and that football with fans, can continue on.