Why is Crystal Palace vs Brighton being played on Thursday? Derby match moved from original Saturday slot

Crystal Palace will face rivals Brighton to kick-off the festive Premier League run on Thursday.

The match was initially scheduled to take place on Saturday, but has been moved.

It's not exactly ideal for fans who will have to make some changes to their usual plans, but at least there are good train links from London to Brighton.

Sky Sports have selected this derby clash between the Eagles and the Seagulls for live coverage, meaning they brought it a couple of days forward to squeeze it in.

This is because the broadcaster are also screening Aston Villa vs Sheffield United on Friday, Liverpool vs Arsenal on Saturday and Wolves vs Chelsea on Christmas Eve.

So because they also wanted to show this match, it has been moved and will now kick-off at 8pm.

talkSPORT will have live and exclusive coverage from south London on Thursday night.

Hugh Woozencroft will be your host and commentary will come from Sam Matterface and former Lioness Lianne Sanderson.

The match will also be shown on Sky Sports Main Event and Premier League.

Alternatively, Sky Go customers can stream the action through their laptops and mobile devices.

Fans can also purchase a NOW TV membership, with one-day passes starting at £11.98 and monthly subscriptions are currently £21.