Premier League: Arsenal’s Tuesday Clash With Wolves Postponed

Arsenal’s match against Wolverhampton Wanderers scheduled to hold on Tuesday 28 December has been postponed.

Gatekeepers News reports that the Premier League board has accepted the postponement of the Arsenal – Wolves clash earlier scheduled to hold at the Emirates Stadium, at 12:30 pm on Tuesday 28 December, has been postponed.

The Premier League, while announcing this postponement in a statement, said this followed the request application of Wolves who do not have the required number of players available for the match (13 outfield players and one goalkeeper) as a result of a number of Covid-19 cases and injuries at the club.

The statement read, “The board was able to make its decision in advance of the fixture to give clarity to the affected clubs and their fans. We apologise for the inconvenience and disruption caused to supporters’ festive plans.

“Earlier this afternoon, Leeds United’s home game against Aston Villa on Tuesday was also called off. The League is aware that the decisions this week to postpone matches will disappoint supporters, and understands their frustrations at a special time of year when fans look forward to attending and watching football games.

“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 on a matchday.”

The board noted that it assesses applications to postpone matches on a case-by-case basis, based on existing rules and adapted COVID-19 postponement guidance, implemented in light of the new Omicron variant.

The statement read further, “The board will assess a number of factors, including the ability of a club to field a team; the status, severity and potential impact of the Covid-19 outbreak at the club; and the ability of the players to safely prepare for and play the match. The board must also consider the wider risks to the opposition and other people the club representatives may come into contact with.

“While recognising a number of clubs are experiencing Covid-19 outbreaks, it is the clubs’ and the League’s collective intention to continue the current fixture schedule where safely possible. The health and wellbeing of all concerned remains our priority and the League will continue to monitor and reflect public health guidance, always proceeding with caution.

“In light of the recent rise in Covid-19 cases across the country, the Premier League has reintroduced Emergency Measures. These include protocols such as more frequent testing, wearing face coverings while indoors, observing social distancing, and limiting treatment time.”

Wolves’ Takehiro Tomiyasu, Cedric Soares, and Ainsley Maitland-Niles were all confirmed as being out with the virus before Calum Chambers joined them.

However, Arsenal had been in best form prior to the encounter, and thrashed Norwich to win 5-0 at Carrow Road on Sunday, thereby strengthening their credentials for a top-four spot.

This was Mikel Arteta’s fifth victory in a row, leaving him delighted with the form of his side whose youthful outfit led by Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe continue to sparkle this team.

Arteta said “We go to every ground to try to impose our game and this was a really good example.

“It is a big win for us. We looked sharp and committed. I am very happy. It is not easy to win away in the Premier League. The way we were dominant from the beginning and the quality we showed, I am very happy.

“The direction the team is taking, how we are growing, the understanding, the unity, and the support from our supporters in every ground is very much linked with the way we want to play.

“The unity around the club and with our fans is very pleasing”