Yet another Premier League fixture has been postponed in the last few hours, with Man Utd’s clash with Brighton at Old Trafford now officially OFF.
The Red Devils were due to play at Brentford on Tuesday night, however that was cancelled due to a number of positive cases in the Man Utd camp – and it seems more have contracted the virus just 48 hours before Saturday’s early kick off against the Seagulls.
So, why is this bad news for Newcastle United?
Well, as things stand, we look set to play Leicester, Liverpool and Man City in the space of 7 days – meanwhile Man Utd will have had 16 days off by the time they come to St James’ Park on December 27th.
Of course, a lot could change between now and then – the Premier League may even announce a break due to the rising number of Covid cases – but it hardly helps our chances if our game the day after Boxing Day does go ahead.
Also, this line from the Premier League’s latest statement suggests there’ll be no shutdown over the Christmas period:
“While recognising a number of clubs are experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks, it is the League’s intention to continue its current fixture schedule where safely possible. The health and wellbeing of all concerned remains our priority.“
So, Man Utd could come into our game with two weeks rest, which could be priceless during what is usually such a tiring period for Premier League teams, meanwhile we’ll have played three times – all against tough opposition – since the Red Devils last game; a 1-0 win at Norwich on December 11th.
Some will wonder if it could work in our favour, as Man Utd might be rusty or could even be missing a few key players if they’ve been hit badly by Covid.
Who knows, having a break from games and limited training sessions may work against them, however I worry a long rest will only serve to benefit Ralf Rangnick’s side; especially against a NUFC side who will have a lot of running to do in upcoming games against Liverpool and Man City!
What a mess.
Here are the Premier League fixtures that have been postponed this week due to Covid:
- Brighton vs Tottenham
- Brentford vs Man Utd
- Burnley vs Watford
- Leicester vs Tottenham
- Man Utd vs Brighton