Burnley v Watford: Premier League match called off due to Covid outbreak in Hornets’ squad

Watford’s Premier League clash against Burnley at Turf Moor has been postponed with kick off hours away due to a Covid outbreak amongst the Hornets’ team.

The Premier League released at statement which said Claudio Ranieri’s side had “an insufficient number of first team players available”.

It said: “It is with regret the Premier League board has postponed Burnley FC’s home fixture against Watford FC, due to be played this evening at 7.30pm.

“The decision was taken following guidance from medical advisers due to an ongoing Covid-19 outbreak within Watford’s squad.

“As a result, the club has an insufficient number of first team players available to fulfil the match.

“The Premier League understands this decision will disappoint and frustrate fans who were due to attend this evening’s game and apologises for the inconvenience and disruption caused at such short notice.

“In considering any application to postpone, the board considers a range of sporting and medical factors.

“Each decision is taken on a case-by-case basis with everyone’s health of utmost importance

“In light of the recent rise in Covid-19 cases across the country, the Premier League has reintroduced emergency measures.

“These include protocols such as more frequent testing, wearing face coverings while indoors, observing social distancing and limiting treatment time.”

The postponement was announced around 5pm, less than three hours before kick off.

This is the third match to be postponed due to Covid issues this season, after Spurs v Brighton was called off and Tuesday’s Brentford v Manchester United clash.

Leicester City wanted to rearrange tomorrow’s match against Tottenham, however it is understood the Premier League turned this request down.

Spurs manager Antonio Conte described the situation with Covid as “scary”.