Aston Villa have been left angry at the Premier League’s controversial decision to bring forward their clash with Tottenham by 48 hours, accusing the governing body of ‘clear prejudice’.
The fixture, Villa’s final game at home this season, has been switched from 2.15pm on May 18 – a Sunday – to 7.30pm on May 16, ahead of Spurs’ possible participation in the Europa League Final on May 21.
The switch would give Tottenham more time to prepare for that fixture, which could bring them only their second trophy this century and their first in Europe since 1984
But Villa believe little consideration has been given to their own attempts to finish in the top five and qualify for the Champions League – nor to their supporters who may now have to change plans at short notice, with the game rescheduled at only 10 days’ notice.
Villa chief Monchi said: ‘The change of the fixture of Tottenham is not what we wanted. We were not entitled to keep it and we got the least damaging alternative.
‘Our fans didn’t deserve but we tried hard to keep the match to protect the most important for us: YOU and OUR TEAM. We need you on Friday.’
Aston Villa will have to play their last home game of the season two days earlier
Tottenham’s potential involvement in the Europa League final means the date has changed
Damian Vidagany says there is ‘clear prejudice’ in this case and did not mince his words
Director Damian Vidagany added: ‘Fixture changed and, honestly, not happy.
‘Hopefully in the future all of them would [remember] the clear prejudice in this case to Villa fans and will be consistent and equally supportive, if we need changes to help us in Europe ( If hopefully we are there).
‘We didn’t feel this support last season or this one. European football is not only demanding for English clubs just on the verge of the finals.’
Villa were frustrated earlier in February when their request to reschedule a league match against Liverpool was turned down, leading to a run of five games in 14 days.
The Premier League said in a statement confirming the fixture changes: ‘This is following a request from Spurs in view of their potential participation in the UEFA Europa League final on Wednesday, May 21.
‘Additionally, the match between Chelsea and Manchester United, also taking place on Friday, May 16 will now kick off at 20:15 BST.’
