The Chelsea Supporters’ Trust (CST) has today (23 December) reiterated its position on the decision made by the Premier League and broadcaster, Sky Sports, to hold Wolverhampton Wanderers v Chelsea on Christmas Eve. This will be the first Premier League fixture held on Christmas Eve in 28 years.
In a visual demonstration outside both the Premier League headquarters and the Sky Group headquarters, The Chelsea Supporters’ Trust, maintained its position that such changes to kick-off times are not welcome in the modern game. The CST firmly believes that “Christmas Eve Football Can Get Stuffed!”
Last season, 15.2 million supporters attended Premier League matches – a new competition record. Despite these exceptional attendance figures, the Premier League has once again demonstrated that it will put the requirements of the broadcasters ahead of matchgoing supporters.
Decisions like this make a mockery of CEO Richard Master’s own words when he launched the league’s ‘Fan Engagement Standard’, where he said: “It is vital we ensure the voices of supporters are not only heard in the stands but also when it comes to having a say on key issues relating to their clubs.”
A Chelsea Supporters’ Trust spokesperson, said:
“We have held this demonstration to remind the Premier League and its broadcasters that without matchgoing supporters, football is nothing – Christmas Eve Football Can Get Stuffed!
“The Premier League CEO, Richard Masters, must ensure his words on supporter engagement are not hollow and must guarantee that there is meaningful dialogue and consultation with supporters on key issues relating to our clubs.
“Our message is clear – stop treating matchgoing supporters with total disrespect or risk stadiums becoming lifeless, soulless, and without passion.”
