The Premier League clash between Burnley and Watford at Turf Moor has been postponed following a coronavirus outbreak in the visiting side’s ranks.

The league announced the decision just two-and-a-half hours before the scheduled kick-off time.

It is the second delayed contest of the midweek schedule in England’s top flight after Manchester United’s trip to Brentford was called off earlier this week.

United’s first-team training facilities had been closed due to a coronavirus outbreak.

Tottenham’s game at Brighton last Sunday was also postponed after Covid-19 had sidelined a number of Spurs’ squad.

Three matches have been scratched from the upcoming weekend’s Championship slate with QPR vs Swansea, Preston vs Millwall, and Reading vs Luton all set to be rearranged due to coronavirus outbreaks.

On the postponement of the Turf Moor contest, a Premier League statement read: “It is with regret the Premier League board has postponed Burnley’s home fixture against Watford, due to be played this evening.

“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 fulfill the match.

The Premier League understands this decision will disappoint and frustrate fans who were due to attend this evening’s game and apologizes 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.”

Source: Livescore.