League to probe heating failures

LAST week’s postponed fixtures at both Bolton and Blackburn because of the failure of under-soil heating systems will be investigated by the Premier League.

“We will look into the reasons why at Bolton and Blackburn the under-soil heating did fail,” said Premier League spokesman Dan Johnson. “It is a specific rule in the Premier League (that clubs must have under-soil heating) in order that we can get fixtures on during inclement weather and we will certainly be asking for an explanation.”

Blackburn’s Premiership clash with Sunderland on Wednesday night was called off because the Ewood Park pitch was covered in heavy frost.

Bolton’s game with Middlesbrough the same evening was also postponed after the Reebok Stadium’s under-soil heating broke down, leaving central areas of the pitch frozen solid.

Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson pointed out the postponement allowed Sam Allardyce’s side extra rest before their New Year’s Eve trip to Old Trafford.