The Premier League has confirmed that a record 42 players and staff across the league have tested positive for Covid-19 in the past week.
It is the highest reported figure over a seven-day period since were first confirmed in May 2020, with the previous highest total of 40 cases reported back in January.
A total of 3,805 tests have been carried out in the last seven days, with Tottenham's match against Brighton called off due to a surge in positive cases at both clubs.
Elsewhere, Leicester City, Aston Villa and Manchester United all have confirmed cases and United's clash against Brentford is now in doubt.
A Premier League statement read: "The safety of everybody is a priority and the Premier League is taking all precautionary steps in light of the recent rise in COVID-19 cases across the country.
"The League has reverted to its Emergency Measures, and will increase the frequency of both Lateral Flow and PCR COVID-19 testing of players and staff.
"The League can today confirm that between Monday 6 December and Sunday 12 December 3,805 players and club staff were tested for COVID-19. Of these, there were 42 new positive cases.
"The Premier League's COVID-19 Emergency Measures, which are applicable to all clubs, include protocols such as wearing face coverings while indoors, observing social distancing and limiting treatment time. These are in addition to the more frequent testing.
"We will continue to work closely with the Government, local authorities and supporter groups, while being responsive to any future changes to national or local guidance.
"The Premier League is providing this aggregated information for the purposes of competition integrity and transparency.
"No specific details as to clubs or individuals will be provided by the League and results will be made public on a weekly basis."
