Brighton vs Arsenal postponed after Mikel Arteta tests positive for coronavirus

The decision was taken after Arsenal players self isolated following their manager’s positive test for COVID-19

Arsenal’s match against Brighton this weekend has been postponed after Mikel Arteta tested positive for coronavirus.

The Seagulls confirmed the decision shortly after the Gunners confirmed their manager had tested positive for COVID-19.

The decision comes just hours after the Premier League announced that all games this weekend would go ahead as planned.

But within the hour, the Gunners confirmed Arteta had tested positive for the virus and that their players and staff were self isolating.

Chief executive Paul Barber underlined the importance of prioritising the health and wellbeing of those involved.

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Barber said: “First and foremost our thoughts are with Mikel Arteta and we wish him a speedy recovery.

“It’s absolutely essential the health and wellbeing of individuals takes priority and with that in mind Saturday’s match has been postponed.

“We apologise to all fans for any inconvenience but trust everyone will understand that we are all facing an unprecedented situation.

“The Premier League has announced this evening that they will convene an emergency meeting of all clubs tomorrow morning, and we will update supporters on future fixtures as and when we are in a position to do so.”

It is the second successive game Arsenal have had postponed after the match at Manchester City, scheduled for Wednesday, was called off.

With the Gunners squad now self isolating, it means their FA Cup quarter-final on 22 March will now almost certainly be called off.