The Premier League has rejected requests to have further matches postponed this week amidst the Omicron surge, Sportsmail understands.
Manchester United’s fixture at Brentford on Tuesday was called off thanks to an outbreak among the visitors’ squad, while Tottenham Hotspur’s match with Brighton went the same way.
And with the latest figures showing a record high of 42 positives across the league, others have been in touch with the competition to ask for their games to be postponed.
Covid-19 spot checks outside Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium ahead of their Premier League game against Leeds United on Tuesday night
The Premier League will reject any future requests for fixtures to be postponed after two matches were called off this week
However, those appeals have fallen on deaf ears, with the competition keen to ensure minimal disruption while keeping sporting integrity.
Brendan Rodgers has claimed the Premier League would not consider postponing Leicester’s clash with Tottenham on Thursday amid ongoing coronavirus issues at the club.
The Foxes are without nine players through Covid-19 and other issues and Rodgers said his side had been ‘a big doubt’ to fulfil last Sunday’s fixture against Newcastle, which they won 4-0.
As well as players missing through illness, Rodgers will also be without centre-backs Jonny Evans and Caglar Soyuncu against Spurs, who both picked up injuries in the last match.
Leicester will be without injured centre-backs Jonny Evans (right) and Caglar Soyuncu (left)
That leaves Rodgers desperately short in that position, with Wesley Fofana and James Justin sidelined with long-term injuries and Daniel Amartey back in training only on Wednesday.
‘Unfortunately for us we were not granted dispensation, which is disappointing,’ said Rodgers. ‘We are a club who have always wanted to support measures.
‘Maybe when you need that support with the extreme situation we were in, we were not able to get that, which was disappointing.
‘We have tried to keep the training ground open and have people functioning. We were a big doubt for the Newcastle game but for the greater good of the game and fans we played the game. Since then we have picked up a couple more injuries.
Foxes boss Brendan Rodgers (pictured) said it was ‘disappointing’ the Premier League would not consider postponing their game against Tottenham on Thursday
‘I am pretty sure there will have been games called off with fewer players unavailable than what we have, but we were not given that privilege to allow players to come back and have a fit squad.
‘It would be nice if there was a bit more clarity. It’s a testing time anyway, so not to be given that support is a little disappointing.’
Each request is made on a case by case basis. A complex situation, the impact on the first team squad is key, although some who do not want matches called off have pointed to the existence of Under 23 squads and the ability to draft youngsters into matchday squads.
Both United and Spurs had to close their training grounds, while new rules for fans were announced on Wednesday.
Those attending matches will have to complete a Covid status declaration prior to matchday, along with displaying an NHS Covid pass or proof of a negative test within the last 48 hours. Checks will take place on around 20 per cent of those present.
Supporters will have to get used to Covid checks with vaccine certificates or proof of a negative test required to gain entry to stadiums
A statement from the Premier League said: ‘From Wednesday 15 December, all those aged 18 and over attending Premier League matches must complete a COVID status self-declaration via their club’s website ahead of matchday.
‘This simple online process requires fans to confirm they have a valid NHS COVID pass or negative NHS COVID test within the previous 48 hours.
‘Supporters must be prepared to show their NHS COVID pass or proof of a negative NHS COVID test on arrival at the stadium. Checks will take place at all Premier League grounds.
‘Fans risk being denied entry if they are unable to show their NHS COVID Pass or proof of a negative NHS COVID test result from within the previous 48 hours, ideally as close to matchday as possible.
Norwich supporters wear face coverings during their match against Aston Villa on Tuesday
‘Fans must wear a face covering while in indoor stadium areas and when travelling to matches on public transport.
‘Although it is not mandatory within the stadium bowl, supporters are encouraged to wear face coverings in congested areas and in stands to protect themselves and those around them.
‘Supporters must not attend matches if they have any COVID-type symptoms or there is a risk of passing on COVID-19.’
Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said: ‘We are doing all we can to keep fans safe and grounds open at full capacity.
Manchester United were forced to close their Aon Training complex after a Covid outbreak
‘The safety of everyone remains our priority and since the start of the season we have been working closely with our clubs, Government and local public health authorities to prepare fans and stadium operations for the introduction of COVID certification.
‘It is really important fans take the time to understand what is required of them when attending Premier League stadiums, which is why we are asking fans to declare their COVID status ahead of a matchday.
‘We want everyone to enjoy matches in safe environments and we and our clubs will continue to urge fans to do all they can and follow public health guidance.’