LONDON (Dispatches) - The English Premier League reported its highest weekly coronavirus infections as forty-two Premier League players and staff have been tested positive for Covid-19 and Manchester United’s meeting with Brentford became the second match in three days to be postponed due to outbreaks.
It is the highest number since 40 cases were reported in January.
That week, 2,295 tests were carried out, while 3,805 tests were done in the latest round from 6-12 December.
Brighton, Tottenham, Leicester, Manchester United, Aston Villa and Norwich have all confirmed cases, with United’s game at Brentford postponed.
Previously, the most positive tests returned in a week this season was 16 from 16-22 August, when there were 3,060 tests.
The latest report of 42 results is an increase of 30 on the 12 positives reported from 3,154 tests from 29 November - 5 December.
On Thursday, following the introduction of new coronavirus rules in England, the Premier League told clubs to return to emergency measures, including social distancing and wearing masks.
A league statement on Monday said the frequency of lateral flow and PCR tests for players and staff would increase.
Some United players and staff returned positive tests following the 1-0 win over Norwich on Saturday evening. The Premier League board accepted United’s request to postpone Tuesday’s scheduled match at Brentford in London less than 24 hours before kickoff.
Norwich and Aston Villa have also reported coronavirus cases at their clubs.
And from Wednesday, fans will need to show proof of double vaccination or a negative test to attend sporting events with crowds of more than 10,000 people in England. This includes Premier League games.