THE FA have changed the Community Shield kick-off time after fans threatened to boycott the match.
The clash between Manchester City and Arsenal will now take place at 4pm on Sunday August 6.
The FA had previously agreed a kick-off time of 5:30pm with broadcasters BBC and ITV.
But City fans kicked up a fuss due to concerns over journeying back up to Manchester after the game.
City supporters group The 1894 called for fans to boycott the competition, claiming supporters were being overlooked by footballing chiefs.
A statement read: “1894 urge you to join us in boycotting the Community Shield game against Arsenal on August 6th.
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“The 17:30 kick-off time presents significant travel challenges from Manchester, making it difficult for many loyal supporters to attend.
“It’s time match-going fans were treated as a priority rather than an afterthought.
“By boycotting this fixture, we aim to send a strong message to the FA and ITV about the impact scheduling has on fans.
“Our collective absence from the stadium will demonstrate our discontent and advocate for fairer game times in the future.
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“We understand the love and dedication you have for City, but we believe that our collective action will bring about positive change.
“We ask fans, who are in a position to do so, to make either a £10 donation, or the equivalent cost of a match ticket, to MCFC Foodbank or another local charity.”
Arsenal are set to take on City in the Community Shield after finishing second to them in the Premier League.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
