Burnley's St Stephen's Day clash against Everton has been postponed in the latest in a slew of postponements in the Premier League.
Everton were set to travel to Burnley for a 3pm kickoff on Sunday, however positive cases in the Everton squad, as well as injuries, have meant that the visitors are not able to field a starting XI.
The news was confirmed by the Premier League on Friday, Christmas Eve, after a request from Everton to have their clash postponed.
Our Premier League fixture at Burnley on Boxing Day has been postponed due to the number of COVID cases and injuries in our squad. pic.twitter.com/KOTVIOhuPz
— Everton (@Everton) December 24, 2021
In a statement released by the Premier League, they stated that calling the match off ahead of Sunday was done to provide clarity to both the clubs as well as their supporters.
"The Board this morning was able to make its decision in advance of Boxing Day to give clarity to clubs and their fans," the statement read. "We apologise for the inconvenience and disruption caused to those supporters’ festive plans.
"The League is aware that the decisions this week to postpone three matches on Boxing Day will disappoint supporters, and understands their frustrations at a special time of year when fans look forward to attending and watching football games."
The is the latest of the St Stephen's Day fixtures to be called off, as Leeds' clash with Liverpool at Elland Road and Wolves meeting with Watford were both postponed on Thursday.
Postponement guidance
While there are still currently seven matches scheduled to be played on Sunday, the Premier League warned that furhter postponements may take place at short notice.
"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," the Premier League statement continued.
"Where possible, the League will endeavour to keep supporters updated if games become at risk on a matchday.
"The Board 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 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.
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