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England vs Netherlands friendly called off

England vs Netherlands

England vs Netherlands

The English FA has called off their international friendly match against the Netherlands as a reaction to the riots taking place in London. The match was scheduled to take place at Wembley tomorrow.

“It is with regret that tomorrow’s international fixture with Holland at Wembley has been called off,” the FA said in a brief statement.

“The disturbances in London are such that all available police capacity is being reserved for that,” the Dutch football federation KNVB said in a statement. “Given that a large event such as an international match at Wembley requires policing, it has been decided not to let it be played.”

“Disappointing for game to be called off, but very good communication with Met, Brent and Government today – sensible decision,” Adrian Bevington, The FA’s managing director of Club England, stated via Twitter.

England defender Rio Ferdinand said on Twitter: “England vs Holland game is off, good call. Who wants to see a game of football when our country is in turmoil?”

“These riots are nuts why would people do this to there (sic) own country. Own city,” Wayne Rooney wrote on Twitter. “This is embarrassing for our country. Stop please.”

The FA has also decided to postpone the Carling Cup matches at Charlton, West Ham, Crystal Palace and Bristol City following three nights of rioting in the English capital.

The faith of the English Premier League matches on the weekend will be decided later in the week after consulations with the police and other authorities.