Tottenham Hotspur v Arsenal postponed: Premier League explain rearrangement decision

Arsenal have been successful in their request to have their clash with Tottenham Hotspur rearranged - meaning the North London derby will be rescheduled.

Mikel Arteta’s side were due to head to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday evening, but the game will now take place later in the campaign.

The Gunners released a statement on Friday evening confirming that they ‘reluctantly’ applied to the Premier League for a postponement after seeing a number of players declared unavailable.

Arsenal’s statement said that “Covid, injuries and players away with their countries at AFCON” had led to their request.

And the Premier League have now sanctioned the postponement, and have explained why they came to that decision.

In a statement, the league said: “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 well-being 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.”

The game is the second in the Premier League to be postponed this weekend, after Burnley’s clash with Leicester City was also called off.