football.london

Why Chelsea vs Brentford isn't on TV as rules blocks Premier League broadcast

Chelsea will look to keep the heat on Premier League leaders Liverpool this weekend when they take on London rivals Brentford on Sunday evening.

Enzo Maresca's men, despite their constant denial, are competing in the title race heading into Christmas. The Blues are currently four points off Arne Slot's men after winning nine of their opening 15 games.

This weekend, Chelsea welcome Thomas Frank's men to west London looking to stay second. Liverpool are in action on Saturday afternoon against Fulham.

Here, football.london has all the details on how to follow the match at Stamford Bridge...

When is Chelsea vs Brentford and what time is kick-off?

Chelsea's home game with Brentford is due to kick-off at 7pm on Sunday, December 15 at Stamford Bridge.

At the same time, Tottenham travel to Southampton. Manchester City take on Manchester United at 4.30pm after Brighton vs Crystal Palace.

Is Chelsea vs Brentford on TV?

No, the game isn't on TV in the UK. Originally, the game was scheduled to take place on Saturday afternoon at 3pm but was moved to Sunday due to the Blues' Conference League participation.

Due to the 3pm blackout rules in place, the game will not be broadcasted live. Article 48 of UEFA's statutes allows member nations to select a two-and-a-half weekend slot where live football is not allowed to be broadcasted. The rule in England emerged in 1987 when ITV's deal with the Football League was struck.

The Premier League has claimed the rule is in place to 'protect attendances throughout the English football pyramid', though there has been pleas for the rule to be ditched.

How to watch Chelsea vs Brentford?

Fortunately for those outside of the UK, there are plenty of international broadcasters to follow along with.

Among the TV channels showing the game are: Arena Premium, Arena Sport, Astro Sports, beIN Sports, Canal+, DAZN, FuboTVM Hub Premier, MAX, Optus Sport, Peacock Premium, Sport, Sky Sport Italia, Star Sports Select, SuperSport Premier League, Siminn Sport, TV3+, V Sport, and ViaPlay.

football.london will have full match coverage via a dedicated gameday blog. That will provide build-up, analysis, reaction and updates throughout the contest in north London. Match highlights will be available on Sky Sports' YouTube channel shortly after full-time.

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