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Why Manchester United and Man City's Sunday kick-off times are earlier than usual

Premier League flag during a match

Premier League flag during a match (Image: Photo by Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)

Ruben Amorim will take charge of his first Premier League game at Old Trafford on Sunday when Manchester United host Everton.

The Portuguese coach has overseen two games so far, including a 1-1 draw away at Ipswich Town and a narrow 3-2 UEFA Europa League victory at home to Norwegian side FK Bodo/Glimt. United sit 13th and 12th in the Premier League and European standings respectively.

On Sunday, they welcome Merseyside club Everton to Old Trafford at an earlier time of 1:30pm. Typically, the two Sunday slots for the Premier League are the later times of 2pm and 4:30pm.

READ MORE: Amorim could unleash new midfield vs Everton to give United fans what they want

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While an official reason hasn't been given for the change to the earlier kick-off times, in which Chelsea vs Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur vs Fulham also take place at 1:30pm, it is most likely due to the Liverpool vs Manchester City clash taking place at 4pm instead of 4:30pm.

The MEN has previously reported the decision was made at the request of Merseyside Police in light of supporter trouble in previous meetings between the two teams. Therefore, the earlier games have likely been moved to avoid any crossover of TV coverage, with Chelsea's game against Villa also set to be broadcast on Sky Sports.

Amorim will hope his side can gain some ground in the top four chase with a victory over Everton this weekend as they will then travel to face title chasers Arsenal midweek in the Premier League. City meanwhile are desperate to address their slump after they went six games without a win following an unbelievable draw against Feyenoord on Tuesday night.

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