Premier League To Resume On Friday But Three Matches Called Off
The Premier League will resume on Friday after last weekend's games were called off following Queen Elizabeth II's death.
However, three matches will be postponed and rescheduled at a later date.
Queen Elizabeth reigned for 70 years on the throne before her untimely passing at the age of 96 last Thursday.
With the long-serving monarch's funeral taking place over a 10-day period, security personnel resources have been stretched leading to the postponement of Chelsea versus Liverpool and Manchester United's home game against Leeds United. Brighton and Hove Albion's match against Crystal Palace had already been called off due to a transport strike.
A Premier League statement read: "Seven of the 10 Premier League fixtures this weekend will be played, with three matches postponed due to events surrounding the Queen's funeral.
"Matches postponed on Sunday, September 18 are Chelsea's match against Liverpool at Stamford Bridge, and Manchester United's home match v Leeds United.
"Brighton and Hove Albion's fixture against Crystal Palace, that was due to be played at 15:00 BST on Saturday, September 17, will also remain postponed.
"Following extensive consultation with clubs, police, local Safety Advisory Groups and other relevant authorities, there was no other option but to postpone the three fixtures.
"The Premier League would like to thank the UK Football Policing Unit and other police forces across the country, as well as our broadcast partners, for their support during this process, and will continue to liaise with them ahead of the weekend.
"For the matches being played during the period of national mourning, tributes will be paid to the Queen at Premier League stadiums.
"New dates for the postponed matches will be announced in due course."
Friday's games will see Aston Villa host Southampton and Nottingham Forest welcome Fulham to the City Ground.
