Why the Premier League has cancelled Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham fixtures in wake of Queen’s death

The Premier League have announced that all games this weekend have been cancelled as a ‘mark of respect’ for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II after her death on Thursday.

London clubs Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur were all due to have matches over the next couple of days but these will now be rescheduled.

What has been said?

Richard Masters, the Chief Executive of the Premier League, has said on the official statement:

“We and our clubs would like to pay tribute to Her Majesty’s long and unwavering service to our country.

“As our longest-serving monarch, she has been an inspiration and leaves behind an incredible legacy following a life of dedication.

“This is a tremendously sad time for not just the nation, but also for the millions of people around the world who admired her, and we join together with all those in mourning her passing.”

Arsenal

Arsenal played on Thursday night in the Europa League away at FC Zurich and left Switzerland with a 2-1 win to kick-start their Europa League campaign.

They were due to play Everton at home on Sunday but that clash will now be played on another day.

Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham have been preparing for a tricky trip to the Etihad Stadium to face Manchester City on Saturday evening in front of the television cameras.

Spurs have made a decent start to the new season under Antonio Conte but will have to take on Pep Guardiola’s side another time now.

Chelsea

Chelsea cancelled Graham Potter’s press conference this morning and he was due to take his first game in charge since taking over from Thomas Tuchel this weekend away at Fulham on Saturday lunchtime.

Elsewhere in London, Crystal Palace were due to play Manchester United at home and Brentford had an away trip to Southampton.

When will football return?

It isn’t just the top flight that is pausing as a mark of respect this weekend, the EFL has also announced that they will not be playing either.

The Premier League’s statement said “further updates regarding Premier League fixtures during the period of mourning will be provided in due course.”