A MAJOR scheduling change has been forced on the Carabao Cup final between Chelsea and Liverpool amid police fears.
The Wembley showpiece was due to kick off at 4.30pm on Sunday.
But the Metropolitan Police requested that it be brought forward after the rivalling Premier League sides made it to the final.
Cops deemed the fixture as “high risk” and requested that it gets under way no later than 3pm.
And now their wish has been granted, with kick-off moved back 90 minutes.
An EFL spokesperson said: “Following representations from the @metpoliceuk, the local safety advisory group has determined the 2024 @Carabao_Cup Final will now kick-off at 3pm.
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“Having previously scheduled the usual 4.30pm kick off time with @wembleystadium and @SkySports, it is disappointing to note the change at this late stage.”
The FA has issued a 3pm TV blackout on Saturdays since the 1960s and is set to stay for another five years.
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But it does not apply for Sundays, meaning the Carabao Cup clash can proceed with the amended time
The game will be broadcast by Sky Sports.
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Chelsea booked their place in the final by overcoming a 1-0 first leg loss to Middlesbrough by winning the return tie 6-1.
Liverpool meanwhile overcame Fulham to set up a repeat of the 2022 final, which the Reds won on penalties.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk