Sheffield United's games with Newcastle United and Arsenal OFF as Premier League suspends season over coronavirus
Sheffield United’s games against Newcastle United and Arsenal have been postponed after the Premier League suspended the season because of the coronavirus crisis.
The decision was announced today after Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta and Chelsea midfielder Callum Hudson-Odoi tested positive for Covid-19.
Players at Premier League clubs including Everton and Bournemouth have also been self-isolating after showing possible symptoms of the virus.
United were due to face Arteta's Arsenal next week in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup, after tomorrow's scheduled trip to Newcastle United.
The EFL has also been suspended, until April 3 at the earliest.
Premier League boss 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."
The league’s statement added: “Despite the challenges, it is the Premier League’s aim is to reschedule the displaced fixtures, including those played by Academy sides, when it is safe to do so.
“In this fast-moving environment, further updates will be provided when appropriate.”
The Premier League initially said last night that games would go ahead this weekend, before announcing shortly after that they would convene an emergency club meeting following the news of Arteta's positive test.
Chris Wilder, at his press conference to preview the Newcastle game, revealed the measures United are taking to combat the threat.
“Yes, there are systems in place,” he said.
“Before they come in, they have to fill out a form online about how they are feeling, if there’s any muscle soreness or issues like that. Then everything gets flagged up.
“I always receive an email, at about 8am, telling me where everybody is at. We get talked about as being pretty old fashioned here. But we are up to date and have our finger on the pulse, if you want to put it like that, from a modern technology point of view.”