The Premier League faced fierce criticism last season for its seemingly ambiguous rules on fixture postponements.

In total, 21 fixtures were postponed last campaign, with some proving particularly controversial.

Tottenham Hotspur, for example, said they were “extremely surprised” at the Premier League’s decision to call off their game against Arsenal in January, adding the club “did not believe” it was fair for postponements to be granted because of absences “unrelated to COVID”.

The Premier League has now revised their rules, saying in a statement: “Ahead of Season 2022-23, the Premier League Board has revised its guidance for match postponements relating to insufficient players.

“This will replace the previous COVID-19 match postponement guidance, providing a standard process for applications."

“Club requests to the Premier League Board will continue to be considered on their facts and assessed on a case-by-case basis."

“Approval will only be granted where the impact of player unavailability on a club’s squad is truly exceptional and where the club concerned has taken all reasonable steps to avoid the necessity to make the application."

“The details within all applications will continue to be scrutinised by the League’s specialist staff before the Board makes its decision."

“The League’s postponement rules and guidance are designed to protect the wellbeing of players and staff while maintaining the sporting integrity of the competition and the quality of squads playing League matches.”