Arsenal Supporters’ Trust issue statement slamming Premier League fixture decision

6

• 
• Arsenal
• Arsenal News
• Premier League title race

Arsenal Supporters’ Trust issue statement slamming Premier League fixture decision

Arsenal's penultimate Premier League fixture against Burnley has been rescheduled to Monday, May 18

View 2 Images

The Arsenal Supporters’ Trust have issued a strong statement urging both Arsenal and the Premier League to "do more" and consider match-going supporters when rescheduling fixtures.

It comes amid news that the Gunners' final home game of the season against relegated Burnley will now be played on Monday, May 18, kicking off at 8pm.

This could have implications for Arsenal if they win the Premier League title before the final day of the season. It also means supporters may have to leave before the team completes their traditional lap of honour at the Emirates.

The statement read: "The Arsenal Supporters’ Trust is disappointed by the 8:00pm Monday kick-off for Arsenal vs Burnley.

FOLLOW OUR ARSENAL FB PAGE! Latest Gunners news, analysis and much more via our dedicated Facebook page

"This timing creates clear difficulties for both sets of supporters, particularly those travelling or relying on public transport, and increases costs and disruption.

"As the final home game of the season, it also means the traditional lap of appreciation will not take place until around 10:00pm, making it less accessible for many fans.

"We did engage with Arsenal ahead of the most recent broadcast deal, recognising that clubs, including Arsenal, play a role in approving these agreements and asking that they give greater weight to the impact on supporters of games being moved.

"While we understand the significant financial benefits involved and how they support the club’s growth, we would urge both Arsenal and the Premier League to do more so that scheduling better reflects the needs of match-going supporters."

View 2 Images

While the Arsenal Supporters’ Trust has confirmed that they held dialogue with club representatives, it's understood that the Gunners did their utmost to prevent the fixture from being rescheduled.

It was initially mooted to take place on Sunday, May 17, and there were suggestions that it could be played at 5:30pm.

Sky Sports will still broadcast the game but there's frustration that fans, who may have already made travel arrangements, will now be out of pocket.

Back in December, Arsenal's Premier League fixture at Everton was moved to a Saturday 8pm kick-off because of their involvement in the Carabao Cup quarter-final against Crystal Palace and again, fans were forced to scrap travel and hotel arrangements.

Meanwhile, Manchester City are also disappointed with the Premier League following dialogue over their matches against Crystal Palace and Bournemouth.

City will now face three games in a seven-day period, hosting Palace on Wednesday, May 13, before heading to Bournemouth on Tuesday, May 19.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?Choose Football London as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌
Support Everyday Chronicle
Global reporting requires independent voices. If you value our coverage, please consider a small contribution to help us grow.
​Click the button below to make a secure donation