Tottenham are set to request the postponement of Sunday’s Premier League game at Brighton after confirming further Covid-19 cases in the camp.
Head coach Antonio Conte confirmed on Wednesday that eight players and five members of staff have tested positive for Covid.
"Everyone is a bit scared,” said Conte. “People have families. Why we have to take the risk? This is my question. Today, two positives. And tomorrow, who? Me? I don’t know. Better me than a player for sure. But I think it’s not right for everyone. We have contact with our families.
“The situation is serious. There’s a big infection. And now, for sure, we’re a bit scared. Because we don’t know what is going to happen."
As it stands, Thursday’s Europa Conference League game against Rennes is set to go ahead as planned, with UEFA rules stating clubs must fulfil their fixtures if they have 13 available players, including a goalkeeper.
After the visit of the French club, Spurs look set to officially request the postponement of Sunday’s game at the Amex Stadium, although discussions with the Premier League are already under way.
A request would be considered by the Premier League board, who decide appeals on a case-by-case basis and would consider factors such as the number of players unavailable, their positions, and the impact on the club’s preparations.
The Premier League has generally been accommodating with such requests and six matches were rescheduled due to Covid outbreaks last season, including some on the day of the game.
Based on precedents set last season, Spurs meet the threshold for a postponement if seven or more players are unavailable, although it would leave Conte’s side with a fixture pile-up down the line.
Spurs already have a game in hand after last month’s visit to Burnley was postponed due to snow.
