Tottenham v Arsenal postponed

Sunday’s derby between Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal has been called off due to the Gunners apparently having an insufficient number of players.

A combination of COVID, players at AFCON, and injuries meant that Arsenal – who loaned out two first-team players in the last week – had decided to “reluctantly” request that the game be postponed.

In a statement, the Premier 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.”

It’s a decision that has divided opinion. Sky Sports commentator Gary Neville tweeted his opinion that the Premier League is calling off games too easily…

Game off. What started out as postponements due to a pandemic has now become about clubs not having their best team . The Premier League must stop this now , draw a line in the sand and say all games go ahead unless you have an exceptional amount of CV cases . It’s wrong 👍

— Gary Neville (@GNev2) January 15, 2022

The North London derby becomes the 21st Premier League game to be postponed this season.