First Premier League game called off as coronavirus spreads

Manchester City v Arsenal, due to be played on Wednesday evening, has become the first Premier League game to be called off because of the coronavirus.

The decision was made after some Arsenal players met Olympiakos owner Evangelos Marinakis two weeks ago, who later tested positive.

“The medical advice we have received puts the risk of them developing Covid-19 at extremely low,” said Arsenal.

“However, we are strictly following the government guidelines which recommend that anyone coming into close contact with someone with the virus should self-isolate at home for 14 days from the last time they had contact.

“As a result, the players are unavailable for tonight’s match against Manchester City and the Premier League has decided the game should be postponed.”