Premier League clash between Newcastle and Aston Villa postponed

The Premier League have confirmed the match between Aston Villa and Newcastle has been postponed due to a coronavirus outbreak at the north-east club.

The match was originally to be played on Friday, but a rise in Covid-19 cases at Newcastle’s training ground has resulted in several players and members of staff having to go into isolation.

“Following a Premier League Board meeting today, Newcastle United’s fixture at Aston Villa, due to be played at 8pm, Friday 4 December, has been postponed,” a statement on the league’s website said.

“Newcastle lodged a request with the Premier League to rearrange the game following a significant increase in Covid-19 cases at the club, which resulted in Public Health England North East (PHE) advising that their training facilities remain closed.

“The Premier League Board agreed, as a consequence, that the club are unable to train and adequately and safely prepare for their match on Friday.

“The decision has been taken in consultation with Newcastle United and Aston Villa, and following extensive consultation with PHE and Premier League medical advisors, with the health of players and staff the priority.”