Newcastle United’s neighbours told ‘game on’ amid second Premier League announcement

While Newcastle United wait on a decision from the Premier League (EPL) regarding Saturday’s clash with Bournemouth, EFL and National League clubs have been told their midweek fixtures will take place as planned.

The Magpies’ trip to West Ham United yesterday was postponed by the EPL as a mark of respect for Queen Elizabeth II’s passing. The EFL and National League also called off their weekend fixtures.

Football, however, will return between Monday and Wednesday this week, with the likes of Sunderland, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool United and Gateshead all in action.

Boro take on Cardiff City on Tuesday and Hartlepool host Crewe Alexandra before Sunderland travel to Reading, 24 hours later.

EFL clubs return to action

An EFL statement read: “The EFL fixture programme will return as scheduled from Tuesday 13 September, with tributes to be paid to Her late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II at grounds around the country.

“A minute’s silence will be held before matches, with black armbands to be worn by participants, flags to be flown at half-mast and the National Anthem to be played in stadiums.

“With a national policing plan now in operation, the League and Clubs will continue to work with forces in respect of any challenges that may emerge regarding policing of specific fixtures.

“Consideration to individual circumstances will be made on a case-by-case basis, in line with standard match Safety Advisory Group (SAG) protocols.”

The same goes for Non League teams

Meanwhile, Gateshead are away to FC Halifax on Tuesday, with National League North sides Blyth Spartans, Darlington and Spennymoor Town also playing.

“Following the postponement of fixtures on Saturday 10 September - The National League would like to issue the following update,” a National League statement read.

“The League can confirm that further to the announcement that the funeral for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be held on Monday 19 September, National League fixtures for week commencing Monday 12 September will go ahead as scheduled.

“Clubs, for all fixtures up until the funeral, will observe a one-minute silence prior to the game and will wear black armbands as a mark of respect to Her Majesty.”

A club statement from Newcastle last week revealed a decision on whether or not the Bournemouth fixture goes ahead “will be made in consultation with the Premier League” at some point this week.