FIXTURE congestion continues to be a hot topic in the Premier League.
The FA Cup fifth round was held in midweek for the first time this season in an effort to decrease disruption on the league schedule, while top-flight players underwent their first ever winter break in February.
City lifted the Carabao Cup against Villa this weekendCredit: Reuters
But despite the best efforts of the authorities, matches are still being moved this late in the campaign.
Why has Chelsea vs Man City been rescheduled?
THE Blues were originally slated to face champions Man City on Saturday,March 21.
Kick-off was set for 12.30pm and the match was due to be televised on Sky Sports.
But after the Blues saw off Liverpool in the fifth round of the FA Cup on March 3, the game has to be rescheduled.
Chelsea last won the world’s oldest cup competition in 2018 and are chasing what would be their ninth triumph in the tournament.
Following their victory, the Premier League were quick to release a statement and inform fans of the postponement.
As well as City’s game at Chelsea, matches involving Newcastle and Sheffield United will also be affected.
Goalscorer Willian and his Chelsea team-mates now have an FA Cup quarter final to look forward toCredit: AFP
The statement read: “FA Cup fifth-round victories for Chelsea, Newcastle United and Sheffield United on Tuesday evening have meant their Premier League matches against Manchester City, Aston Villa and Manchester United later this month will be rescheduled.
“Frank Lampard’s side, who beat Liverpool 2-0, and Newcastle, who were 3-2 winners at West Bromwich Albion, were due to face City and Villa respectively on Saturday 21 March.
“However, because the sixth round of the FA Cup will be held on the same weekend those matches will now be rearranged.
“This also applies to Sheff Utd, who beat Reading 2-1 in extra-time, and will no longer visit Man Utd on Sunday 22 March.
“With another all-Premier League FA Cup fifth-round tie this week between Tottenham Hotspur and Norwich City, at least one other Premier League fixture in Matchweek 31 will also be rescheduled.”
When will the game be played?
AS yet, there is no confirmed date for the rescheduled tie.
With Chelsea scrapping for a European spot, this game could be crucial in their quest for the Champions League.
City fans are used to games being moved at short notice, with their top-flight clash against Arsenal now set for next Wednesday.
The game was supposed to take place last weekend but was postponed due to City’s involvement in the Carabao Cup final.
And Gunners fans are fuming at the change to Wednesday, March 11 as there are no scheduled trains back to London following the game.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
