Jurgen Klopp admits he is thankful of the decision to play Liverpool’s Premier League match away to Arsenal on December 22.
There had been suggestions the clash at the Emirates would be played on December 24, sparking outrage in response to the prospect of Reds having to travel back to Liverpool on the night before Christmas.
After deliberation, Sky wisely decided that the game will be played two days earlier, although the kick-off time remains unconfirmed.
Speaking ahead of Sunday’s game against Tottenham, Klopp told reporters: “I don’t know when it happened last time that somebody could take something but didn’t, because of common sense.”
“Sky, thank you.”
“I thought it was a very good decision, especially from the fans. It’s still difficult, we will do everything we can as a club to help the fans get back from London.”
“I love these signs because I said a few times that we signed these contracts but it is the players who decide how nice the game is, if they can never rest it’s a problem.”
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With a 7:45pm start looking possible, Reds still face a tough journey back from the capital on one of the busiest travelling weekends on the calendar.
That said, Christmas football is part of why fans love the the game and the Premier League so dearly. Regardless of the result, the train and coach rides promise to be merry.
Fears of a lack of care for fans have thankfully been somewhat eradicated.
Liverpool’s festive schedule will see them start the month by hosting Spartak Moscow in the Champions League on December 6 and the Merseyside derby on December 10, before welcoming West Brom to Anfield on December 13 and then travelling to face Bournemouth three days later.
After facing Arsenal on December 22, Klopp’s men will play Swansea at home on Boxing Day before meeting with Leicester City, also at home, on December 30 and then starting 2018 with a trip to Burnley on New Year’s Day.
Busy, busy, busy.