England match off

Wembley clash postponed

England’s friendly game with Holland has been postponed because of the riots in London.

The Football Association announced the decision on Tuesday after a third night of rioting on Monday.

The FA met with local officials and the Metropolitan Police and the decision was made to call off the match with over 70,000 fans expected at Wembley.

A short FA statement read: “It is with regret that tomorrow’s international fixture with Holland at Wembley has been called off.”

The England call-off follows a string of postponements in the Carling Cup, across the south of the country from London to Bristol.

The Football Association’s managing director of Club England Adrian Bevington confirmed their disappointment.

He Tweeted: “Disappointing for game to be called off, but very good communication with met [Metropolitan Police], brent [Brent Council] and govt [Government] today – sensible decision.”

The Football Association will hold a press conference at their training HQ at The Grove Hotel later on Tuesday when FA chairman David Bernstein is expected to be present – possibly with some players.

The decision was announced before the Dutch team travelled to London for Wednesday’s match.

“We will remain in the Netherlands,” Dutch football association spokeswoman Monique Kessel said. “It’s a shame.”