Dean Smith confirms West Ham v Norwich City doubtful to go ahead

Norwich City boss Dean Smith has confirmed that their game against West Ham on Saturday is a major doubt.

On Tuesday, after he watched his side fall to a 2-0 defeat against Aston Villa, the manager admitted that eight of his players missed the game due to injuries, positive Covid-19 tests or others being symptomatic.

He also claimed that the game against the Hammers is a doubt, given their lack of numbers.

Sky Sports’ Rob Dorsett wrote, “Dean Smith has called for clear rules on when a Premier League game can be called off because of coronavirus.

Says Norwich City had 8 players absent tonight v Aston Villa because of injury, positive Covid tests or other players being symptomatic. Admits Saturday’s game v West Ham is in doubt.

Another pause?

Given how games are getting cancelled left, right and centre and how many players and staff are contracting Covid, it seems like the Premier League may have to make the tough decision.

In the midst of the 2019/20 season, they took a three-month break as the world first coped with the effects of the pandemic.

However, if they take one now, it is unlikely to be that long, given how there are vaccines in place.

West Ham

This will dent West Ham’s plans severely as they will be preparing for that game along with the Arsenal game which is later today (December 15).

As things stand, that match is certain to go ahead and there are not an alarming number of cases in any of the camps.

David Moyes has not addressed the Norwich issue just yet, but we expect him to be asked about it either in the pre-game interview or the post-game press conference.

In other West Ham news, the club have made an approach to sign a ‘Terrific’ international ace and a January move is on cards

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