The Premier League has announced that seven of the 10 matches scheduled this weekend will go ahead, with three games postponed due to events surrounding next Monday’s funeral for Queen Elizabeth II.
All of the league’s matches were postponed last weekend after the monarch passed away on Thursday at the age of 96.
The league will partially return in the upcoming weekend, though three matches will be postponed.
Chelsea versus Liverpool at Stamford Bridge, and Manchester United’s home match against Leeds, which were scheduled for Sunday, will be postponed, as well as Brighton’s home match against Crystal Palace scheduled for Saturday.
Two other games saw their kickoff times adjusted.
“For the matches being played during the period of National Mourning, tributes will be paid to The Queen at Premier League stadiums,” read a statement from the Premier League.
Policing challenges ahead of funeral for Queen Elizabeth II
The three matches that were postponed were due to the massive policing requirements for next Monday’s state funeral for Queen Elizabeth II and the surrounding events.
In a statement, Manchester United said the postponement of its home game against Leeds was “due to Greater Manchester Police supporting forces across the United Kingdom at locations and events of high significance following the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
“The club reiterates that the safety and security of our fans is paramount and, after considering all available options, we are supportive of the decision that was made in conjunction with the relevant authorities.”
The Premier League added: “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.”
In addition, UEFA announced that Thursday’s Europa League fixture between Arsenal and PSV was also postponed.
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