Covid 19 forced the premier league to shut down when the pandemic raged through the world. Now, 16 months later football is still being affected by the coronavirus pandemic. The match between Manchester United and Preston has been canceled after some player tested positive for the virus. The match is supposed to take place on Saturday, July 31, 2021.
According to reports, a number of first-team players have tested positive for the virus and the rest of the team are required to isolate until they are cleared.
Manchester United issued a statement stating that the club has identified a small number of suspected positive covid-19 cases. As a result, the match has been canceled.
The Premier League season starts in 14 days and teams are hoping that they can put the covid-19 pandemic behind them ahead of the new season. Unfortunately, covid is still here and we may see it disrupt football once again when the season starts.
A statement issued by United on Thursday said: “Maintaining Covid security is a priority for us.
“Following routine testing of the first team training group today, we have identified a small number of suspected positive cases. This has led to those people isolating, pending further tests.
“As a precautionary measure based on covid protocols, we have taken the difficult decision that we will not now be able to play the friendly match against Preston North End this Saturday.
“We regret the disruption to Preston and disappointment caused to fans. Any Manchester United fans who have purchased tickets for the game will be automatically refunded.
“At this stage, we do not expect further disruption around our forthcoming matches, but we will continue to follow Premier League protocols in this regard.”
A statement issued by Preston read: “Preston North End’s fixture against Manchester United has been called off after a number of suspected Covid cases were identified in the United squad on Thursday.
“We received news of this from Manchester United shortly before 7 pm on Thursday evening.
“We would like to apologize to all supporters for any inconvenience caused, however, the Covid security of both clubs is paramount with the 2021/22 Championship season just eight days away.”
