Following a “significant increase” in COVID-19 positive cases at the Magpie’s training ground, Newcastle’s game against Aston Villa on Friday has been postponed.
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On Monday and Tuesday, Newcastle’s training ground at Darsley Park was closed following coronavirus positive tests results. The training ground was shut on advice from the Public Health England North East. Consequently, a number of Newcastle United players and staff members tested positive for the virus and are self-isolating at home.
As a result, the Premier League club lodged a request with the league to postpone the match at Villa Park which was approved. A new date and time for the game fixture will be confirmed in the future.
As a response, Aston Villa says they “fully support” the Premier League’s decision to postpone the match.
“Everybody at Aston Villa wishes a speedy recovery to all those affected by the virus”.
When Newcastle won 2-0 against Crystal Palace, manager Steve Bruce made it known that three players and one member of staff had tested positive.
Further tests will be given to the players and the training ground staff this week. Newcastle, PHE, and the Premier League will then hold another meeting to assess the results and decide on the next course of action.