Premier League plan to stage Arsenal v Liverpool on Christmas Eve could be derailed by health and safety concerns

  • Stewards would be reluctant to staff the game on Christmas Eve
  • The Premier League have proposed the first December 24 fixture since 1995
  • It may not reach safety regulations if Arsenal can't guarantee steward numbers

Liverpool's proposed trip to Arsenal on Christmas Eve has been placed in jeopardy due to safety concerns as stewards are reluctant to staff the game.

Talks remain ongoing between the clubs and local authorities as the Premier League plan to broadcast the Premier League's first December 24 fixture since 1995.

But there are now fears that the fixture would not be able to meet safety regulations as Arsenal are unable to guarantee a sufficient number of stewards, according to The Telegraph.

Liverpool's proposed trip to Arsenal on Christmas Eve is in jeopardy due to safety concerns

Liverpool's proposed trip to Arsenal on Christmas Eve is in jeopardy due to safety concerns

A vote at a meeting of the Arsenal Supporters' Trust showed that 99 per cent of Gunners fans would be opposed to a 4pm kick-off time on Christmas Eve.


Just under half, 45 per cent, would not attend if the match were staged at this time.

A spokesman for AST warned there could be  a 'record number of empty seats The Emirates' should the Christmas Eve kick-off go ahead. 

Liverpool will strongly oppose any move to reschedule match at Arsenal for Christmas Eve

Travel disruption and family commitments could see a raft of empty seats for the game

Besides the stewarding situation, there are worries about transport and how fans would get home in time for Christmas Day.

The clubs are also unsure whether they would still be asked to fulfil their Boxing Day fixture, or if that would be moved to December 27.

Sky are due to announce their televised games for the festive period on October 16. 

Liverpool's Premier League trip to face Arsenal at the Emirates is scheduled for December 23

Liverpool's Premier League trip to face Arsenal at the Emirates is scheduled for December 23