Newcastle United’s next two Premier League fixtures against West Brom and Leeds could be postponed after more positive Covid-19 cases at the club.
An outbreak among The Magpies players and staff resulted in the postponement of last Friday’s trip to Aston Villa, and the situation at the club has failed to improve.
It’s believed the number of positive cases has increased following the latest round of testing, with training suspended indefinitely ahead of the busy Christmas period.
Steve Bruce’s side are scheduled to face West Brom at St James’ Park on Saturday before they travel to Leeds a week on Wednesday, however both those game are now in serious doubt.
Newcastle staff will hope testing results tomorrow will allow them to get back on the training pitch ahead of what is perceived as a ‘favourable’ run of fixtures for The Toon.
While focus remains on returning to action as soon as possible, an investigation continues into how the virus managed to get into the camp undetected.
It is thought the outbreak started from a backroom staff member more than a fortnight ago, although a player who was away during the recent international break also tested positive.
Despite suggestions Newcastle may have to forfeit upcoming fixtures, the Premier League confirmed last week that all games affected would be rearranged if the club continued to comply with all the necessary rules.
The statement read: “The Premier League wishes those with Covid-19 a safe and speedy recovery and will rearrange the postponed fixture against Aston Villa in due course.
“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.
“Newcastle correctly notified PHE regarding a number of positive Covid-19 test results, which is standard practice under Government and Premier League guidelines.”
