Manchester City-Sunderland & Everton-Crystal Palace called off

Feb 12, 2014 7:38:00 PM

Adverse weather conditions in the north of England have deemed the matches unplayable and "unsafe" for matchday staff and fans, with Stoke-Swansea delayed as well

Manchester City's clash with Sunderland at the Etihad Stadium has been called off due to weather conditions, as has Everton's match against Crystal Palace.

Manchester police confirmed the news an hour before kick-off with strong winds deemed to make the game unplayable and "unsafe" for matchday staff and fans.

City captain Vincent Kompany added on Twitter: "Game's called off! Make sure you get yourselves home and be safe, weather is terrible!"

An official statement from City read: "Manchester City can confirm that this evening's fixture versus Sunderland has been postponed due to exceptional and escalating weather conditions.

"The safety of those in around and travelling to the stadium complex cannot be guaranteed. This decision has been made by the Safety Officer and Greater Manchester Police.

"Both managers and the match officials understand and support this decision."

Manager Manuel Pellegrini added: "The safety of the City and Sunderland supporters is the most important thing.

"We understand and fully support the reasons behind the game being called off and hope those who are in transit arrive home safely."

Everton's match against Palace at Goodison Park has also been postponed, with the club confirming: "Tonight's game has been called off due building damage which has led to safety concerns."

Weather conditions has also forced the Premier League clash between Stoke City and Swansea City to be pushed back to an 20.00GMT kick-off following a pitch inspection. ----------------- goal.com