January 15, (THEWILL) – The Arsenal-Tottenham north London derby, which was set to take place on Sunday, January 16th, has been postponed. It comes after Arsenal requested that it be postponed owing of Covid-19 cases, injuries, and players unavailable due to African Cup of Nations duty.
As THEWILL reported, the request was made on Friday evening, and it was granted just over 24 hours before kick-off.
Arsenal had just played Liverpool in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final on Thursday, and Tottenham were reportedly enraged by the postponement request, which came just 48 hours before the match at the Emirates Stadium.
“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,” a league statement read.
“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.”
According to Premier League rules, a match must be completed if at least 13 outfield players and one goalkeeper are available for selection.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
