Premier League make controversial Chelsea fixture change with unexpected announcement

Chelsea's trip to Bramall Lane to face Sheffield United has been moved. Having been picked for the 1:30pm slot on Sunday, April 7, it will now be played later in the day.

As a surprise amendment, the match will now start at 5:30pm, although it will still not be shown on TV. The Premier League's website states, «fixture moved because both clubs play on the previous Thursday.»

Sheffield United confirmed the decision, writing: «Following a deliberation with Chelsea FC, the Premier League, Sheffield Council and South Yorkshire Police, the game will remain on Sunday 7th April now kick-off at 5:30pm with the aim of making it easier on the day for all fans to get to the game and then leave in a safe and timely manner afterwards.»

It comes just two weeks after Blues fans were dealt a tough hand following train cancellations around the away trip to Manchester City. Late notice if Avanti West Coast trains not running left thousands struggling to get home from the Etihad Stadium.

This occasion also promises to make things challenging for fans rather than easier. With the Sheffield half-marathon set to take place on the same afternoon, the city is expected to be extremely busy throughout the early afternoon, and may well have impacted the request from the home side to change the kick-off time.

Chelsea are in action against Manchester United in an 8:15pm kick-off just three days earlier at Stamford Bridge. The Blades are away to Liverpool the same night in a 7:30pm start.

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