Arsene Wenger claims that he could make his peace with Arsenal’s home game against Liverpool being played on Christmas Eve as long as kick-off is before 2pm.

Wenger admits that while he would prefer to be at home at Christmas rather than away watching football, this could still be possible for traveling fans if Arsenal’s clash against Liverpool kicks off before 2pm on 24 December.

“I know that we have to adapt to the schedule dictated by the televisions, but overall I would say if that happens personally I think it should not, not any game should be played after 2pm,” Wenger said.

“Personally I would prefer to be at my home on Christmas night and celebrate Christmas, but I still feel that could happen if we played early on the day and what you wouldn’t like to sacrifice is the evening with the family for people, but overall we go towards society religion isn’t considered anymore in any decision and where people want as well to watch football in the Christmas period.”

Sky’s decision to move Arsenal’s home match against Liverpool from 23 December to Christmas Eve is a controversial one. In fact, while Box Day football is a British tradition, a match hasn’t been played on 24 December since 1995 when Manchester United lost to Leeds.

Fans from all 20 Premier League teams have urged the clubs not to move the match. However, after Richard Scudamore insisted that the game wouldn’t kick off after 4pm, it’s looking very likely to go ahead.

The Football Supporters’ Federation (FSF) has accused Sky and the Premier League of putting the interests of the broadcasters ahead of match-going fans, which is exactly what they’re doing.

At the moment, the fixture is penciled in for 3pm on Saturday 23 October, which means it won’t be shown on TV.

Sky want it broadcast with 4pm on the Sunday suggested. They want people to tune in and watch it for their ratings, even though this will mean less paying fans will be able to attend. This is what football’s coming to.