Virus concerns grow in premier league

Coronavirus outbreaks at English soccer clubs have raised concerns about games continuing, with the highest number of cases reported across Premier League clubs in a single week — reflecting a sharp rise in infections across the country.

There were 18 positives after 1,479 tests on players and club staff from Dec. 21-27, the Premier League said.

Sheffield United followed Manchester City in announcing an outbreak of virus cases at the club, but its game against Burnley was still played on Tuesday.

“I want to play, that's how it is — we are not looking to get anything canned,” Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder said ahead of kickoff.

Manchester City previously announced that striker Gabriel Jesus and defender Kyle Walker tested positive last week. Further positives cases at City led to Monday's game at Everton being postponed.

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl missed Tuesday's game against West Ham after a member of his household tested positive.