Storm Darragh has wreaked havoc on the football calendar, forcing eight statements on the state of Premier League fixtures this weekend.
Matches involving Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham take place on Sunday and are unaffected as it stands. A total of five matches were initially lined up on Saturday, but the storm's severe impact, with gusts surpassing 90mph and 'danger to life' warnings issued, has prompted urgent action from Premier League officials and clubs to prioritise safety.
As a result, a flurry of statements have been released by the Premier League and the affected clubs. Below is a list of them...
Everton vs Liverpool - 12.30pm kick-off
One of the high-profile casualties is the Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool, scheduled for Saturday at 12:30pm at Goodison Park. The decision to postpone the match was made following a Safety Advisory Group meeting held at the stadium, which included representatives from both clubs, Merseyside Police, and Liverpool City Council.
The consensus, as shared in the statements from Everton, Liverpool, and the Premier League, was clear: "Following a Safety Advisory Group meeting at Goodison Park, attended by officials from both clubs, as well as representatives from Merseyside Police and Liverpool City Council this morning, it was decided that, due to the risk to safety in the local area due to strong wind gusts, and an amber severe wind warning that remains in place until 6am on Sunday, today's fixture should be postponed on safety grounds."
Everton has issued an apology for the inconvenience caused, clarifying in their statement that all tickets purchased by home supporters for the match will remain valid for the rearranged fixture, with further information to be released in due course. Liverpool echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the disappointment of their fans and confirming that the safety of fans, staff and players is paramount.
They also confirmed that ticketing details for away supporters will be announced in due course. The Premier League has confirmed that this weekend's Fantasy Premier League deadline will stay at 11am on Saturday, December 7, rather than moving closer to the next set of scheduled matches.
Aston Villa vs Southampton - 3pm KO
Aston Villa vs Southampton will go ahead as planned, with Aston Villa reassuring fans: "Today's Premier League match against Southampton WILL go ahead as planned."
They had previously advised fans to allow extra travel time due to adverse weather conditions. Southampton relayed this message to their travelling fans, urging them to stay safe and take extra care.
Brentford vs Newcastle United - 3pm KO
Brentford vs Newcastle United will also proceed as planned, according to a message from the hosts to both teams' supporters.
Brentford have confirmed: "Today's match is still scheduled to go ahead despite the bad weather. Please travel safely, plan ahead, and allow extra time for your journey.
"Don't worry if you can't make it – we'll factor the weather conditions into account under our Every Seat Counts policy but be sure to list your ticket on the exchange. Stay safe."
Crystal Palace vs Manchester City - 3pmKO
Crystal Palace are set to host Manchester City today at 3pm, and despite the adverse weather conditions, the game is expected to proceed as planned. The Eagles informed their fans at 11.16am: "Today's fixture at Selhurst Park is scheduled to go ahead as planned. We advise all supporters to plan their journey in advance and take care travelling to and from the stadium," accompanied by a red love heart emoji and a blue love heart emoji.
With Liverpool out of action, Manchester City has a prime opportunity to close the gap to just six points.
Manchester United vs Nottingham Forest - 5.30pm KO
Meanwhile, Manchester United's clash with Nottingham Forest is slated for a 5.30pm kick-off today. The Red Devils were hoping to sidestep the brunt of the inclement weather, and it appears they have managed to do so.
A statement from the Old Trafford outfit was issued at 10.55am confirming their intentions.
Ahead of tonight's fixture with a 5.30pm kick-off, the latest update read: "Today's Premier League fixture at Old Trafford between Manchester United and Nottingham Forest is scheduled to go ahead as planned. The club will continue to consult the relevant authorities throughout the day and will update supporters immediately if anything changes."
They also acknowledge the weather's impact on travel, stating, "We understand that fan travel will be disrupted by the weather so this fixture will not be included in the minimum number of games a season that season tickets must be used."
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