Sheffield United's European qualification in jeopardy with Premier League set for emergency Coronavirus meeting

Following further Coronavirus revelations overnight involving Chelsea and Arsenal, the Premier League are holding an emergency meeting this morning.
(Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)(Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
(Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

The Premier League are set for an emergency meeting at 10:00 this morning, following news that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and Chelsea star Callum Hudson-Odoi have contracted Coronavirus.

Following yesterday's Cobra meeting Prime Minister Boris Johnson revealed the the UK was now in the delay phase in its response to the pandemic, but ruled out sporting fixtures being played behind closed doors or postponed for the time being.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

However, following last night's revelation which is likely to see both Arsenal and Chelsea's full first teams go into self-isolation for the next two weeks. It has also come to light that Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy has the disease.

A report by the Guardian suggests that today's meeting could see the Premier League season suspended for "several weeks", and hasn't ruled out the possibility of the entire season being voided - an outcome which would rob Sheffield United of their stunning achievements in the 2019/20.

A Premier League statement read: "The welfare of players, staff and supporters is of paramount importance and we will continue to follow Public Health England guidelines thoroughly. We will keep everyone updated as appropriate."

Meanwhile, a host of countries including Spain, Italy and Portugal have suspended their top tier football in light of the outbreak continuing to grow rapidly, while Bundesliga and Ligue 1 are continuing to play matches, but will do so behind closed doors until further notice.