'Premier League Clubs Discussing Two Week Covid Break After Cases Spiral

Premier League chairmen are reportedly discussing having a two week break due to rising cases of Covid-19.

Everton v Manchester City had to be postponed on Monday after an outbreak of cases at the Etihad had been found to have spread even further.

Sheffield United have also experienced an outbreak, but their game with Burnley is going ahead - and Ralph Hassenhuttl will miss his side's match with West Ham after a member of his household tested positive.

The latest round of coronavirus testing found 18 positive tests among the 1,479 Premier League players and staff tested, which is the highest figure found since testing began in August.

🔵 | Following a Premier League Board Meeting this afternoon, #EFC has been informed that tonight's fixture against @ManCity has been postponed on medical grounds due to an increase in cases of COVID-19 in the Manchester City squad.

— Everton (@Everton) December 28, 2020

This may have stoked club chairmen's worries, with a break for January being discussed - according to the Telegraph.

The report claims that while talks have been 'informal' so far, several chairmen see a mid-season break as 'inevitable' due to the worsening Covid situation.

Sheffield United can confirm the club recorded a number of positive coronavirus tests after the latest round of testing.

The individuals who have tested positive have now entered into a period of self-isolation in accordance with Premier League and Government guidelines.

— Sheffield United (@SheffieldUnited) December 29, 2020

The UK government is thought to be discussing putting areas into harsher lockdowns this week as the national situation also worsens.

As well as the Premier League, the FA Cup Third Round could be hit by the pandemic's winter re-emergence. Many lower league clubs have already seen their matches postponed recently, and it is unknown if it will be possible to play all of the fixtures next month.

source https://www.sportbible.com/football/football-news-premier-league-discussing-two-week-covid-break-after-cases-spiral-20201229