Watford's game against Burnley has been postponed after the home side asked the Premier League to call it off.

The Clarets submitted a request to the league this afternoon for the game to be called off, claiming that "a high number of injuries and Covid-19 cases within the squad" meant they were unable to field a full team.

Messages from Burnley earlier this morning were positive and the Watford Observer was told it was "all systems go" before Claudio Ranieri faced the media.

However, half an hour before Sean Dyche was due to do the same, the Premier League announced that they had received a request from the Lancashire club to call the match off.

That request has since been granted and the game will have to be rescheduled for a second time.

The first time the two sides tried to meet at Turf Moor this season, Watford requested the game be postponed due to the number of positive Covid tests within their camp.

It was called off with only two hours' notice provided.

A Premier League statement reads: "The Premier League Board accepted Burnley’s application with the club having fewer than the required number of players available for the match (13 outfield players and one goalkeeper), due to ongoing COVID-19 cases, injuries and representation at the Africa Cup of Nations.

This follows Burnley’s home match against Leicester City on Saturday being called off. 

The League apologises for the inconvenience and disruption caused to supporters who would have attended or watched the game - we are fully aware that postponements disappoint clubs and fans.

The League aims to provide as much clarity as possible, but unfortunately postponements sometimes have to be made at short notice, as safety is our priority.

Where possible, the League will endeavour to keep supporters updated if games become at risk.

The Premier League’s postponement rules are designed to protect the wellbeing of players and staff, while maintaining the sporting integrity of the competition.

Club requests are assessed on a case-by-case basis, based on existing rules and adapted COVID-19 postponement guidance, implemented in light of the Omicron variant.

The Board examines a number of factors, including the ability of a club to field a team; the status, severity and potential impact of COVID-19; and the ability of the players to safely prepare for and play the match.

The detail within all applications is scrutinised by the League’s specialist staff before the Board makes its decision."