Newcastle United's game against West Bromwich Albion under threat due to Covid-19 outbreak

Tonight’s game against Aston Villa at Villa Park was postponed early this week due to an outbreak of coronavirus cases at the club.

Steve Bruce last week revealed that three unnamed players – and one member of staff – had tested positive for Covid-19. United's head coach also suggested the return of international players before the Chelsea game was a factor in the outbreak.

"There’s a big jump, and it’s probably partly among the ones that have been on international duty and are coming back,” said Bruce.

There were more cases over the weekend, and the decision to postpone the Villa game was taken after a further round of testing on Sunday. There have been reports that the total number of cases is in double figures, though Newcastle have made no comment since issuing a statement confirming a “sharp rise” in infections on Tuesday.

It has also been claimed that three players who played in the 2-0 win over Crystal Palace a week ago have since tested positive for Covid-19.

United’s players – who are tested weekly, not bi-weekly as they were under Project Restart in the summer – have been working on their fitness at home ahead of a hoped-for return to the training ground early next week.

The club, which maintains that all protocols have been strictly followed, is working with the Premier League and Public Health England to restart training ahead of the West Brom game.

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