Premier League games ‘could be moved to Xmas Eve’ causing travel issues for fans
Premier League matches could controversially be played on Christmas Eve this year.
You have to go back to 1995 for the last top-flight game to be played on December 24. However, there is reportedly a real chance it could happen again, which would spark outcry from away fans in particular.
Clubs sources say the prospect of at least one Christmas Eve match was raised this week, reports The Telegraph, which adds that no firm decision has been taken. At present, a full round of fixtures is due to take place on the weekend of Saturday, December 23, with kick-off times and TV selections due to be confirmed imminently.
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Matches that weekend include Liverpool vs Arsenal and West Ham vs Manchester United, which are both likely TV selections for Sky Sports and TNT Sports. Other games include Chelsea’s trip to Wolves, Newcastle at Luton and Tottenham hosting Everton.
The game which would involve the least travelling is the ‘M23 derby’ between Crystal Palace and Brighton, although extra policing resources would be required for that fixture given the animosity between the fans. The last Christmas Eve game in the Premier League saw Leeds beat Manchester United 3-1 at Elland Road, a match best remembered for a brilliant solo effort from Tony Yeboah.
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It has also been suggested that matches scheduled for the weekend of Saturday, December 30 could be moved to New Year’s Eve, which would also pose travel issues for away fans. That weekend does at least feature a number of local affairs, including Arsenal vs West Ham, Burnley vs Liverpool, Chelsea vs Crystal Palace and Everton vs Manchester City.
The Premier League has so far refused to comment on the matter. One insider told The Telegraph: "Nothing is final until final. Not all changes are just for broadcast – some are for local authority and some might be for other competitions.”
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