The Premier League’s Richard Scudamore confirmed on Tuesday 10 October there will be no 4pm kick-off on Christmas Eve. It’s a decsion welcomed by Spirit of Shankly, other supporter trusts and fans, and a decision we believe was reached as a result of coordinated pressure from supporters groups.

But it doesn’t mean there will be no games on 24 December. Four games will be shown live on TV over the weekend 22-24 December, with at least one scheduled for Christmas Eve. The games chosen will be revealed on 19 October. If Arsenal v Liverpool is one of them, SOS will look to canvass our members.

SOS and, judging by the amount of comments and coverage this festive fixture has garnered, the majority of football fans believe there should be no games played on this day. The Christmas holiday period is a time spent with family and friends, with plans made often months in advance. Christmas Eve might traditionally be a working day, but it is one that shuts down early. Scheduling football matches for TV on such a day ignores not just supporters, but workers, police, local authorities and many others needed for such an event to go ahead.

SOS will continue to push for no football on Christmas Eve. Ever.

Supporters should be included in such decision making. As stated previously, we want to work with the TV companies and the game’s authorities to avoid such pitfalls, which is why we call for supporter representation in the next round of contract talks between broadcasters, the Premier League and clubs.

We will keep you informed of any progress and continue to fight on your behalf.

#hohono