Arsenal’s Tuesday night fixture has been called off after an outbreak of Covid in the Wolves squad.

Only happens to Arsenal - David Luiz vs Wolves
Only happens to Arsenal – David Luiz vs Wolves

Mikel Arteta wasn’t best pleased that Arsenal would have to play Wolves less than 48 hours after they faced Norwich with their opponents having a nine-day rest, but it seems he needn’t have worried as the game will not go ahead.

Wolves had their Boxing Day match called off due to Covid and that situation will not improve in time for Tuesday night’s game to go ahead.

The official announcement came at 7.35pm (UK).

Arsenal said in a statement, “We are disappointed to announce that our Premier League fixture against Wolves on Tuesday December 28 has been postponed due to a number of the Wolves squad testing positive for COVID-19.

“This game will be rescheduled in due course and any tickets and/or hospitality packages purchased for this fixture will be valid for the rescheduled date.

“All updates will be shared on Arsenal.com. If you have any additional questions, please contact our Fan Services Team on [email protected] or call 020 7619 5000. Our opening hours are 9:30am – 5pm, Monday to Friday. Please note, our phonelines are normally closed on Bank Holidays, but our team will be available from 9:30am to 2:30pm on Tuesday 28 December.

“We apologise to our fans for any disappointment and inconvenience caused.

“Thank you for your support.”

The decision will likely benefit Arsenal who can now prepare to face Manchester City.

Wolves’ statement said, “Wolves’ trip to Arsenal on Tuesday 28th December has been postponed, with Bruno Lage having an insufficient number of players available to fulfil the fixture.
A combination of positive Covid-19 test results and injuries led to Wolves requesting for the fixture to be postponed, which was accepted early to give supporters a two-day notice period.

“Tickets will be valid for the rearranged date and refunds are available by emailing [email protected].

“Following the postponement, the Premier League released the following statement…

“Arsenal FC’s match against Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Emirates Stadium, due to be played at 12:30pm on Tuesday 28 December, has regrettably been postponed.

“The Premier League Board accepted the postponement application as Wolverhampton Wanderers does 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 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 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. Click here to read more on the Premier League’s match postponement process.

“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.