Crystal Palace’s home meeting with Manchester United has been moved to a 19:00 GMT kick-off on Sunday, December 13, prompting frustration among travelling supporters.
The Premier League fixture was selected for broadcast by TNT Sports and is one of the latest December matches to have its date and time confirmed. Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST) has objected to the scheduling, arguing that a late Sunday start could make the journey home difficult for fans attending the match at Selhurst Park.
The group said the timing could create pressure for supporters dealing with work, school and family responsibilities, while some may face the possibility of returning home late or paying for overnight accommodation. MUST accepted that Palace’s European commitments were a reason for moving the match to Sunday, but questioned why the fixture could not begin earlier.
MUST also referred to previous Premier League assurances that the 19:00 Sunday slot would not become a regular part of the fixture calendar. It is calling for clubs, broadcasters and the league to give greater weight to match-going supporters when arranging future fixtures.
Palace’s home clash with Arsenal has also been scheduled for a 19:00 Sunday kick-off, meaning the unusual time will apply to more than one high-profile game at Selhurst Park.
