The match is the second successive Newcastle United fixture to be postponed following the cancellation of Thursday's scheduled game at Everton, with several players and staff having succumbed to illness and injury over the festive period.

In accordance with protocol, the Magpies submitted a separate request to the Premier League to postpone the trip to the south coast, and this has been approved by the Premier League Board.

Both away fixtures will now be rescheduled and new dates and times will be confirmed in due course.

Newcastle United once again thanks the respective clubs and the Premier League for their cooperation and understanding.

The club also extends its sincere apologies to supporters affected by both postponements and asks them to retain their tickets.

The club will not be naming individuals who have contracted Covid-19 or their vaccination status. We ask that their privacy is respected and we wish them a full and speedy recovery.

For the latest coronavirus guidance, please visit gov.uk/coronavirus.

To find out more about vaccinations and how to book one, please visit nhs.uk/covidvaccine.