Leeds United vs Aston Villa postponed due to Covid-19 cases

The Premier League have confirmed that Leeds United's clash with Aston Villa on Tuesday 28th December has been postponed due to a Covid-19 cases in the home squad.

The news comes after Leeds' Boxing Day fixture against Liverpool was also postponed.

Aston Villa are due to play on Boxing Day - welcoming Chelsea to Villa Park for the 17:30 kick off - despite their manager Steven Gerrard being unable to attend due to Covid protocols.

A statement released by the Premier League said the following: "Following a request from Leeds United, the Premier League Board met today and regrettably agreed to postpone the club’s home fixture against Aston Villa, due to be played at 17:30 GMT on Tuesday 28 December.

"The Board was able to make its decision in advance of the match to give clarity to the affected clubs and their fans. We apologise for the inconvenience and disruption caused to supporters’ festive plans.

"The postponement is a result of the ongoing COVID-19 cases and injuries at Leeds which saw their Boxing Day match against Liverpool called off. The Board accepted the postponement application as the club does not have the required number of players available for the match (13 outfield players and one goalkeeper).

"The League is aware that the decisions this week to postpone matches will disappoint supporters, and understands their frustrations at a special time of year when fans look forward to attending and watching football games.

"The League aims to provide as much clarity as possible, but unfortunately postponements sometimes have to be made at short notice, as safety is our priority. Where possible, the League will endeavour to keep supporters updated if matches become at risk on a matchday."

The news will come as welcome relief for Marcelo Bielsa and Leeds who, on top of Covid cases, face a huge injury crisis. Bielsa is currently without the services of his two star men Kalvin Phillips and Patrick Bamford due to long term ailments.