Premier League make major decision on North London Derby after Arsenal request

This weekend’s North London Derby meeting between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur has been postponed by the Premier League.

The Gunners confirmed on Friday evening that they had lodged a request with the governing body of the competition for the match to be rescheduled.

Arsenal believed they had a reasonable reason to request a postponement with injuries, Africa Cup of Nations and positive Covid-19 cases having hit Mikel Arteta ’s squad.

A club statement read: “We can confirm we have made an application to the Premier League for the postponement of Sunday’s north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.

“We have reluctantly taken this step but we have many players currently unavailable across our squad as a result of Covid, injuries and players away with their countries at AFCON.”

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Following a meeting of the Premier League board, the game which – was set to be played at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium – has now been postponed.

The London derby is the second match this weekend to have been called off, following Burnley’s home match with Leicester City.

football.london’s understands that Tottenham staff and players have been told of the decision by the Premier League to grant Arsenal’s request, with the Premier League expected to release a statement shortly.

Tottenham players were told at the club’s training ground that the game was to be called off, with stadium staff also being sent an email confirming the decision.

The Premier League confirmed the decision with the following statement.

“Following a request from Arsenal FC, the Premier League Board met today and regrettably agreed to postpone the club’s away fixture against Tottenham Hotspur, due to be played at 4:30pm on Sunday 16 January.

“With Arsenal having fewer than the required number of players available for the match (13 outfield players and one goalkeeper), the Board accepted the club’s application. The decision is a result of a combination of COVID-19, existing and recent injuries and players on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations. All clubs are able to apply for a postponement if COVID-19 infections are a factor in their request.

“The League apologises for the inconvenience and disruption caused to supporters who would have attended or watched the game – we are fully aware that postponements disappoint clubs and fans. The League aims to provide as much clarity as possible, but unfortunately postponements sometimes have to be made at short notice, as safety is our priority. Where possible, the League will endeavour to keep supporters updated if games become at risk.

“The Premier League’s postponement rules are designed to protect the wellbeing of players and staff, while maintaining the sporting integrity of the competition. Club requests are assessed on a case-by-case basis, based on existing rules and adapted COVID-19 postponement guidance, implemented in light of the Omicron variant. The Board examines a number of factors, including the ability of a club to field a team; the status, severity and potential impact of COVID-19; and the ability of the players to safely prepare for and play the match. The detail within all applications is scrutinised by the League’s specialist staff before the Board makes its decision.”

It remains to be seen when the game will be rescheduled for, although each side have a number of midweeks free, with neither participating in European competition.

Tottenham are set to play one of their rescheduled fixtures next week with their trip to Leicester – originally scheduled to take place on Thursday, December 16 – now set to be played on Wednesday, January 19.

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https://www.football.london/arsenal-fc/news/breaking-premier-league-london-arsenal-22762445

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