Mauricio Pochettino Chelsea 2023

Wolves vs Chelsea set to be first Christmas Eve Premier League football match since 1995

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  • Molineux match moved to Christmas Eve
  • Originally scheduled for December 24
  • Supporters groups angered by decision
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    The clash between Wolves and Chelsea at Molineux Stadium was originally scheduled to be played on December 23, but Express and Star reports that it has been moved back by 24 hours as part of the Christmas programme.

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  • Sterling, Jackson Chelsea celebration 2023Getty Images

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    The Guardian states that the decision has been made to fulfill the Premier League's broadcasting requirements.

    The match will be the first since 1995 to take place on December 24, when Leeds beat Manchester United 3-1 thanks to goals from Brian Deane, Tony Yeboah and Gary McAllister.

  • WHAT THEY SAID

    The Football Supporters’ Association has hit out at the move, saying: "It would be a huge kick in the teeth for supporters who have consistently made clear their opposition to games the day before Christmas – as it’s not the first time this has been proposed.

    "Back in October 2017 there were reports that Sky Sports wanted to broadcast games on Christmas Eve which we said represented: 'a new low point in putting the interests of football broadcasters over those of matchgoing fans'.

    "It would put many supporters in an impossible choice between going to the match or spending festive time with their families – and that’s before you factor in the added challenges of travelling on a Sunday (which Christmas Eve falls on this year)."

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  • Pedro Neto Wolves 2023-24Getty Images

    WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

    The Premier League is yet to confirm the rescheduling of the fixture. In the meantime, Chelsea will take on Arsenal in the league on Saturday, while Wolves will visit Bournemouth.

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