A huge fire erupted outside Southampton's stadium (Image: Twitter)
Southampton's clash with Preston North End on Wednesday evening has been called off due to a fire breaking out near St. Mary's Stadium. Both clubs are pushing for promotion to the Premier League but they will have to find a new date for this fixture.
Fire crews were called to the old Greenhams building shortly after 1pm and one person needed to be treated for smoke inhalation. There have been no reports of serious injuries.
More than 100 firefighters are tackling the blaze and roads around the stadium have been closed, meaning fans will not be able to attend the match.
A Southampton statement reads: "Southampton Football Club regrets to announce that tonight’s Sky Bet Championship match against Preston North End has been postponed.
"The decision was made after consultation with the local authorities and emergency services after a major fire broke out in a building next to the St Mary’s Stadium site earlier today.
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"The incident has caused significant disruption in the area with road closures around the stadium still in place as fire crews continue to deal with the situation.
"We are grateful for the cooperation of Preston and the EFL, and while we appreciate the disappointment fans may feel, we hope they will understand the need to put the safety of supporters and staff of both clubs first.
"The game will be postponed to a new date, which will be announced in due course, and all tickets for tonight’s match will be valid for the rearranged fixture."
An EFL Spokesperson said: “The EFL can confirm that tonight’s Sky Bet Championship fixture between Southampton and Preston North End has been postponed as a result of health and safety concerns following a fire nearby St Mary’s Stadium.
“The League will liaise with both Clubs to determine a suitable date to reschedule the fixture, with details to be confirmed in due course.”