Increase In COVID-19 Cases In London Worsens, Arsenal Jamu Southampton In A Closed Stadium

JAKARTA - Arsenal will host Southampton in an English Premier League match on Wednesday behind closed doors after the city of London was included in the highest category (tier 3) for the response to COVID-19 following the sharp increase in COVID-19 infections in England.

Arsenal were among 10 Premier League clubs allowed to have a maximum of 2,000 spectators at their stadiums earlier this month when London was classified as a high alert (tier 2) region when the month-long national lockdown was lifted.

But the UK government said on Monday that London was upgraded to tier 3 status after an exponential increase in the rate of coronavirus infections.

"It is with disappointment that we confirm that we will no longer be able to welcome fans to the Emirates Stadium for the Premier League match against Southampton on Wednesday, 16 December," Arsenal said in a statement quoted by Reuters.

We are disappointed to confirm that we are no longer able to welcome fans to Emirates Stadium for our Premier League fixture against Southampton on Wednesday, December 16

- Arsenal (@Arsenal) December 14, 2020

Fulham's home game against Brighton & Hove Albion on Wednesday was also forced to go behind closed doors.

Likewise, West Ham United who will host Crystal Palace will do their match without spectators on the same day.

Meanwhile, based on the draw for the last 32 of the Europa League which was held in Nyon, Switzerland yesterday, the Gunners will face Portugal's representatives, Benfica.

The Europa League last 32 first leg will start on February 18, 2021, while the second leg will be on February 25.