Everton have confirmed that their Premier League showdown with Crystal Palace will proceed as planned despite Storm Amy forcing sections of their ground to shut down.
Fierce winds and torrential downpours have battered Britain over the last 24 hours, causing widespread disruption across the nation. The storm has also provided Everton’s new Hill Dickinson Stadium with its inaugural major examination. Officials have now verified that certain zones around the venue have been shut as a consequence.
The closures, nevertheless, are not expected to affect Sunday’s Premier League encounter between the Toffees and Crystal Palace. The two teams are scheduled to meet at 2pm on Sunday.
A statement issued on social media platforms read: “We can advise that due to Storm Amy, and the severe weather currently affecting the region, Everton Way and the Originals Fan Wall at Hill Dickinson Stadium have been closed to visitors in the interests of safety. The closure will not impact preparations for tomorrow’s Premier League fixture.”
Both Everton and Palace will be eager to claim all three points when the sides meet. The hosts presently occupy ninth position in the Premier League standings, having secured two victories from their opening six league matches under David Moyes this term.
Palace have also enjoyed a superb beginning to the campaign, having stretched their undefeated streak to 19 matches across all tournaments. Oliver Glasner’s squad could potentially conclude the weekend at the summit of the table with a triumph and favourable results elsewhere. Everton manager Moyes has voiced his concerns before the match and disclosed that the PGMOL acknowledged that Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s current ban is incorrect.
He stated: “We have spoken to them and they are accepting the yellow cards are wrong. The last two decisions are terrible, more for the boy and we are going to miss him. He is back playing football now.”
Additionally, Moyes commented on the exclusion of on-loan winger Jack Grealish from the most recent England squad. He said: “I am glad I don’t pick the England team because the England squad is a great group of players to choose from, really top players all around the country.”
“Jack is one of them, he is in really good form but I am glad I don’t pick the England team. He is showing the levels he can get to and we are hoping he continues with that. I believe he will be ready, he needs to continue on scoring goals and making assists.”
After this weekend’s fixtures, Premier League activity pauses due to the forthcoming international break.