Everton’s game with Newcastle United has been postponed.
Rafael Benitez was in line for a reunion with his former employers when they faced his current side for Thursday’s Premier League clash at Goodison Park.
However the Magpies lobbied the Premier League for the fixture to be called off on account of their squad being depleted by injuries and Covid-19 cases.
The Blues’ Boxing Day trip to Burnley was shelved on similar grounds, but only after their initial appeal was reviewed by top flight chiefs late last week.
In a statement on Tuesday evening, the Premier League confirmed that it had accepted Newcastle’s reasons for the game being deferred until a later date.
They said: “The board accepted Newcastle United’s postponement application as the club does not have the required number of players available for the match (13 outfield players and one goalkeeper), due to COVID-19 cases and injuries.
“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.
“The league is aware that the decisions in the last 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.”