Everton and Liverpool issue joint Storm Darragh statement

Everton and Liverpool have issued a joint statement ahead of the Merseyside derby as Storm Darragh sweeps across the country.

The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning in Merseyside for Saturday 7 December as wind gusts of 60 to 70mph are likely.

As things currently stand, Saturday’s Premier League game between Everton and Liverpool will go ahead as planned.

However, fans of both clubs have been urged to be extra vigilant when travelling to the 12:30pm kick-off at Goodison Park.

Everton and Liverpool fans advised to take extra care when travelling to and from Goodison Park

“Supporters attending Saturday’s Merseyside derby at Goodison Park are advised to allow extra time for travel and remain alert to Met Office weather warnings,” a statement from both clubs read.

“An amber severe wind warning has been issued by the Met Office for Merseyside from 1am GMT on Saturday, with wind gusts of 60mph to 70mph likely.

“The warning for wind is expected to remain in place until 6am on Sunday.

“Given the weather warning, fans are advised to allow extra time for their journey and take extra care.

“Supporters are also advised to keep a close eye on travel and weather guidance in their area to assist with travel planning for the Premier League fixture (12:30pm kick-off).”

Separately, Merseyside Police issued a statement advising against non-essential travel.

It read, as per the Liverpool Echo: “We are advising members of the public to stay safe, plan ahead and avoid any non-essential travel until conditions have improved. Residents are advised to check the relevant local authority pages for details.

If you need to make an essential journey during the storm, please plan ahead and drive carefully.

“Remember to give vulnerable road users including cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians more room than usual. They are more likely to be blown around by side winds – always keep a safe distance.

“Those using public transport are advised to check for any disruption before they travel.”

Two Championship games have been called off due to Storm Darragh – Plymouth v Oxford and Cardiff v Watford.

All games in Wales, including Newport v Carlisle in League Two and the full Cymru Premier programme, have been postponed.

Wales has been issued with a red weather warning in place from 3am to 11am on Saturday 7 December.