Arsenal’s request to move December’s trip to Everton has been accepted, with the game now set for 8pm on Saturday, 20th December.
The fixture had originally been pushed to Sunday, 21st December as part of the festive broadcast schedule but returns to Saturday to avoid the prospect of two matches in 48 hours. That situation arose because Arsenal’s Carabao Cup quarter-final against Crystal Palace at Emirates Stadium has been set for 23rd December – a date chosen to minimise fixture congestion for the Eagles.
Arsenal say they opened discussions with the Premier League and Everton as early as possible, citing player welfare and the FIFA-recommended minimum of 72 hours’ rest between games. They also referenced the desire to reduce pre-Christmas disruption for supporters and staff, who might otherwise have been asked to attend the Palace tie on Christmas Eve.
That will be of little comfort to fans unable to get refunds for pre-booked travel and accommodation in Merseyside, although the club are offering £10 return coach travel.
Some may also question the wisdom of accepting an 8pm kick-off, given the likelihood of a more boisterous atmosphere after a full Saturday of drinking. Unfortunately, with the game selected for TV, it was the only alternative broadcast slot available to Sky Sports.