Coronavirus has finally forced the Premier League to come to a halt. After Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta tested positive for COVID-19, the Premier League scheduled an emergency meeting for this morning. In the end, they have decided to postpone all matches till April 4.
The Premier League, FA, EFL and WSL have collectively agreed to postpone the professional game in England
Full statement: https://t.co/XcDyzBp4Ol pic.twitter.com/cmYjoY3LRR
— Premier League (@premierleague) March 13, 2020
Coronavirus Forces The Premier League to Postpone Matches
COVID-19 has caused havoc across the sporting world with Serie A, La Liga, Bundesliga, and Ligue 1 all suspended amongst others whilst in the United States, all five major sports leagues have been put on hold. The England cricket team has also postponed their tour to Sri Lanka. All UEFA club competition matches scheduled next week are postponed as well. The only major sporting competition still going ahead was the Premier League.
However, things have moved rapidly in the last 24 hours. After Mikel Arteta, Callum Hudson-Odoi also tested positive for COVID-19. Arsenal, Chelsea, Everton and Bournemouth squads have so far gone into self-isolation. Benjamin Mendy also put himself in self-isolation after a family member showed symptoms. He is awaiting test results and will remain in isolation. Coronavirus has finally forced the Premier League to come to a halt. All the fixtures have been postponed till April 4. In fact, all professional football in England will come to a halt till that date as this decision was taken jointly by the Premier League, FA, EFL and WSL.
What Was Said
In a statement released by the Premier League, Chief Executive Richard Masters said: “Above all, we wish Mikel Arteta and Callum Hudson-Odoi speedy recoveries, and everyone else affected by COVID-19.
“In this unprecedented situation, we are working closely with our clubs, Government, The FA and EFL and can reassure everyone the health and welfare of players, staff and supporters are our priority.”
Furthermore, the FA have also postponed England’s friendlies against Italy and Denmark, which were due to take place at the end of the month.
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