NEWCASTLE’S request to postpone their match with Everton on Thursday has been accepted due to a Covid outbreak and injuries, ahead of their January 2 visit to Saints.

Magpies had gone into Monday’s clash against Manchester United with their squad already depleted by positive tests and injuries, then lost key players Callum Wilson and Allan Saint-Maximin to injury during the 1-1 draw.

It throws Sunday’s contest at St Mary’s into doubt, despite some controversy over the fact that many of Eddie Howe’s absentees are injury and not COVID concerns.

A statement from the Premier League on Tuesday evening read: “Everton’s match against Newcastle at Goodison Park, due to be played at 1930 on Thursday December 30, has regrettably been postponed.

“The board accepted Newcastle’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.”

As it stands, Saints manager Ralph Hasenhuttl is due to face the press for his Newcastle pre-match press conference at 1PM on Friday, December 31.