By Spy Uganda
Aston Villa’s Premier League clash with Burnley has been postponed just hours before kick-off.
The number of Premier League games this weekend to be called off has now stretched to six after Villa confirmed the postponement earlier this afternoon.
Steven Gerrard’s side were heading into the 3pm fixture on the back of a 2-0 win against Norwich City at Carrow Road on Tuesday night, with both sides suffering from depleted squads as COVID cases rise across the league.
In a statement, the club has said: “Aston Villa can confirm that today’s Premier League fixture with Burnley has been postponed due to an increased amount of positive Covid-19 test results within our playing squad.
“The results of PCR tests, which were taken yesterday prior to training as well as Lateral Flow Tests, were received this morning and confirmed further depletion of our playing squad which was already impacted upon for our trip to Norwich in midweek.“All individuals who tested positive are now isolating in line with Premier League and government guidance and protocols.
“The Club is extremely sorry for the inconvenience caused to Burnley Football Club, both our own supporters and the Burnley fans due to attend the fixture but have acted as swiftly as possible this morning to minimise disruption.”
On Thursday, the Premier League board announced that City’s away trip to West Ham United on Saturday would be postponed as Norwich were unable to put a squad together for the fixture.
“The decision to postpone the fixture comes following PCR test confirmation of positive COVID-19 results, injuries, and illnesses within City’s playing squad and staff,” a statement from Norwich City read.
“Those individuals who have returned a positive COVID-19 test result are completing a period of self-isolation, as per Premier League protocols and government guidelines.
“The club regrets any inconvenience caused to West Ham United and both sets of supporters.
“Details of a rearranged date for the fixture, and future ticketing arrangements, will be communicated in due course.”
Manchester United’s meeting with Brighton & Hove Albion this weekend was the first game to be called off, followed by Southampton vs Brentford, Watford vs Crystal Palace, and Everton vs Leicester.
With six games postponed there is now only one Premier League fixture being played on Saturday, with Leeds United facing Arsenal at Elland Road in the 5.30pm kick-off.
Newcastle United vs Manchester City, Wolves vs Chelsea, and Tottenham vs Liverpool are still scheduled to go ahead on Sunday.
A meeting with all Premier League clubs will be held on Monday to discuss the current COVID crisis, with suggestions of postponing all games until the FA Cup third round on the weekend of January 7.
