A number of statements were issued after Premier League matches have faced the threat of postponement this weekend due to Storm Darragh
A general view of Goodison Park after the match is cancelled due to Storm Darragh and poor weather conditions.
Everton vs Liverpool was postponed on Saturday.(Image: Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
Storm Darragh has wreaked havoc on the football calendar, with the Premier League's weekend fixtures feeling the full force of its impact. A total of 10 matches were initially set to take place, but the storm, bringing gusts exceeding of up to 90mph in parts and severe 'danger to life' warnings, prompted urgent action from Premier League officials and clubs to prioritise safety.
Liverpool's short-trip to Goodison Park was the big decision of the weekend as their 12.30pm kick-off fell victim to the adverse weather. Their meeting, and the final encounter at Everton's home before their stadium switch, was called off amid safety concerns.
As a result, eight statements have been issued jointly by the league and the clubs involved, detailing the disruptions caused by the adverse weather conditions.
READ MORE: How Everton and Liverpool came to postponement decision after early morning talks at Goodison ParkREAD MORE: Liverpool release statement with only one thing now certain about final Goodison Park derby
Storm Darragh claimed the highly anticipated Merseyside derby at Goodison Park. Everton, Liverpool, and the Premier League have all confirmed the postponement following a Safety Advisory Group meeting held at Goodison Park this morning.
Representatives from both clubs, Merseyside Police, and Liverpool City Council were present. The unanimous decision to postpone today's game was based on the risk posed by strong wind gusts and an amber severe wind warning that remains in effect until 6am on Sunday.
The shared statement from the clubs and the Premier League emphasised: "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 and clarified that all tickets purchased by home supporters will be valid for the rearranged fixture. Liverpool also acknowledged the disappointment of their fans, emphasising that the safety of fans, staff and players is paramount.
The Premier League confirmed that the Fantasy Premier League deadline would remain at 11am on Saturday, December 7. Aston Villa vs Southampton proceeded as planned, with both clubs advising fans to allow extra time for travel due to adverse weather conditions.
Brentford vs Newcastle United also went ahead as scheduled. The Bees 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 hosted Manchester City and the Eagles informed their supporters 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, Man City had the opportunity to ramp up the pressure by reducing the gap to just six points.
Manchester United are also in action today, with a 5.30pm kick-off against Nottingham Forest. The Red Devils were hoping to sidestep the brunt of the adverse weather, and it appears they have managed to do so.
Old Trafford officials released a statement at 10.55am confirming the situation ahead of the 5.30pm kick-off at Old Trafford, the club confirmed: "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 acknowledged fan concerns by 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."