Fresh pictures show damage of Wimbledon pitch as massive sinkhole forces Newcastle switch
Fresh images have emerged showing the true extent of the damage to AFC Wimbledon's pitch after the upcoming clash with Newcastle United was cancelled on Monday morning.
The Premier League side were set to face their League Two opponents at the Cherry Red Records Stadium on Tuesday evening but it was clear even 36 hours before the clash that no football would be able to take place at Wimbledon's 9,000-seater venue. Flooding overnight has caused parts of the pitch to collapse as a massive sinkhole opened up in the corner of the playing area.
Wimbledon have announced the closure of the stadium until further notice but the severity of the damage means it is highly unlikely any football will be played at the fourth-tier ground for a considerable amount of time. Pictures also show the surrounding areas of the stadium, and the underground car park, have also been affected after the River Wandle flooded.
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It has been confirmed the clash will take place on October 1st at St James' Park, rather than a neutral stadium. Wimbledon's clash with Crewe Alexandra, scheduled to take place on that evening, has been rescheduled.
In a short statement, Newcastle said: "Our postponed Carabao Cup tie with AFC Wimbledon will now take place at St. James' Park on Tuesday, 1 October."
Wimbledon said: "Our Carabao Cup fixture against Newcastle United has been rearranged - to be held at St. James' Park, Newcastle, on Tuesday 1st October, kick off 7.45pm.
"We will confirm ticket arrangements as soon as possible (including refund process for the original fixture), and we are actively working with local travel companies on coach travel for our supporters wishing to travel as we recognise this will be extremely difficult for supporters wishing to travel to support the Dons for this hugely anticipated fixture.
"Furthermore, our upcoming home EFL League Two match vs Crewe Alexandra, scheduled for 1 October, has been postponed. Tickets purchased for this fixture will remain valid, with more details to follow in due course.
"We will advise on arrangements for this Saturday's scheduled match v Accrington Stanley as soon as possible."