A FOOTBALL match due to take place at Leigh Sports Village this Friday has been cancelled because the pitch has not recovered from Elton John’s concert.

Wigan Athletic announced on Tuesday that the pre-season clash with Walsall will now take place behind closed doors at Christopher Park Training Ground following a pitch inspection at Leigh Sports Village.

A decision regarding the friendly match against Besiktas on Tuesday will be made later this week.

Jonathan Jackson, Wigan Athletic chief executive, said: “Leigh Sports Village expected the pitch would have recovered but unfortunately the impact the concert has had on the pitch has meant that the normally immaculate surface has not recovered.”

The club has apologised to supporters and will refund any tickets.