Merseyside derby POSTPONED! Goodison Park clash between Everton and Liverpool called off amid 'danger to life' red weather warning as Storm Darragh batters western England with 90mph winds

The Merseyside derby has been pushed back due to "adverse weather conditions", as winds of up to 90mph hit the west of England, in particular, very hard. The match was scheduled to kick off at 12.30pm (GMT) on Saturday but will now take place at a later date. The Athletic states the decision to postpone the fixture was taken 'by the authorities' and not the clubs.

An Everton club statement reads: "Everton’s Premier League fixture against Liverpool, scheduled for 12.30pm (GMT) today, Saturday 7 December, has been postponed. Following a Safety Advisory Group meeting at Goodison Park, attended by officials from both clubs, as well as representatives from Merseyside Police and Liverpool City Council this morning, it was decided that, due to the risk to safety in the local area due to strong wind gusts, and an amber severe wind warning that remains in place until 6am on Sunday, today’s fixture should be postponed on safety grounds. We apologise for the inconvenience caused and thank supporters for their understanding. Whilst we appreciate this will be deeply disappointing for supporters, the safety of fans, staff and players is of paramount importance. Information relating to a rearranged date for the fixture will be announced in due course. All tickets purchased for the original fixture will remain valid for the rearranged fixture."

This comes off the back of the Met Office issuing a 'danger to life' red weather warning, due to the high wind speeds, the risk of flying debris, falling trees, large waves, power cuts, damage to buildings and homes, and more. Millions of people are being advised to stay indoors with their rare red alert and, ultimately, people's safety is more important than football.

While a date for this rescheduled Merseyside derby, the last ever at Goodison Park, will be announced in due course, it remains to be seen if other Premier League matches this weekend will go ahead amid Storm Darragh.