Premier League Announces Festive Fixture Schedule and Draws Criticism
The Premier League has revealed its broadcast selections for the upcoming Christmas and New Year period, which include a match on Christmas Eve for the first time in 26 years. Chelsea will be facing Wolverhampton Wanderers in the historic fixture.
Scheduled for 1pm GMT, the clash between Wolves and Chelsea will be televised on Christmas Eve, marking the first time since 1995 that a Premier League match has been held on this date. However, this decision has attracted backlash from fans and supporters’ trusts.
On December 23, Arsenal will travel to Liverpool for an exciting match, while Manchester United will face West Ham United at the London Stadium with an early kick-off. The festive period will continue with Manchester United hosting Aston Villa at 8pm GMT on Boxing Day, and Nottingham Forest traveling to face Newcastle United in the early game.
Chelsea will then welcome Crystal Palace to Stamford Bridge on December 27, just three days after their clash against Wolves. As the year comes to an end, Arsenal will start the new year with a London derby against Fulham, while Tottenham Hotspur hosts Bournemouth on New Year’s Eve. Liverpool will play against Newcastle United at 8pm GMT on New Year’s Day.
Despite the excitement surrounding the festive fixtures, the scheduling of the Wolves vs Chelsea match on Christmas Eve has drawn heavy criticism. The Chelsea Supporters’ Trust and the Football Supporters’ Association have described it as “totally unacceptable” and “shocking scheduling.” They believe it lacks consideration for fans who may have made prior plans for the holiday.
Notably, the Wolves supporters trust has also expressed their disappointment, stating that the decision shows a “complete lack of consideration and respect for fans.” With football being a sport that often revolves around its passionate supporters, the uproar is understandable.
The Premier League has not yet responded to the criticism and concerns raised by the supporters’ trusts. However, with the fixture selection now finalized, fans will eagerly await these highly anticipated matches, hoping to put their grievances aside and enjoy the festive football action.
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