Liverpool reluctant to make Christmas Eve trip to Arsenal
Liverpool are not keen on a Christmas Eve visit to the Emirates Stadium
Liverpool will strongly oppose any move to reschedule their match at Arsenal for Christmas Eve.
Press Association Sport understands the club are aware of the possibility of their December 23 fixture at the Emirates Stadium being put back 24 hours in order to be televised and are already arguing against it.
It is understood the club believe it would be prohibitive for supporters to attend and, given the potential impact on thousands of fans, will continue to express their concerns through the appropriate channels.
Sky Sports holds the rights to televise Premier League matches in two Sunday slots on each game week during the season, and Christmas Eve this year falls on a Sunday. The broadcaster has not yet announced its televised games for the festive period.
Liverpool fans are already mobilising their opposition and the high-profile Spirit of Shankly group has already lodged its disapproval regarding the potential switch of the game.
"We hope that common sense will prevail and that both clubs, police, television companies and the Premier League decide against such a move," said a Spirit of Shankly statement.
"Changing to Christmas Eve would have an untold impact on staff and supporters, particularly away supporters. Supporters would be faced with the prospect of getting home in the early hours of Christmas morning.
"We are in the process of contacting the relevant personnel to make it clear that it would be completely unacceptable to expect supporters to travel back from the capital at that time."
