The English Premier League has shifted two key December fixtures to help Arsenal and Crystal Palace manage an unusually tight schedule.

Arsenal’s trip to Everton and Crystal Palace’s Premier League game against Leeds United, originally set for 14:00 GMT on Sunday, 21 December, will now kick off at 20:00 on Saturday, 20 December.

The adjustment gives both sides an extra day to prepare for their EFL Cup quarter-final on 23 December. The EFL had earlier moved the cup tie from 16 December, citing concerns that Palace, also involved in the Conference League, would otherwise face three matches in just five days.

Despite the change, Palace will still face a demanding schedule, playing two games in three days. Their Conference League tie against Finnish side KuPS is set for Thursday, 18 December.

Arsenal addressed the possibility of playing the EFL Cup tie on Christmas Eve but rejected the idea due to the impact on fans and club staff. “We looked at all options, including Christmas Eve, but the effects on supporters and club personnel made it unfeasible,” a club spokesperson said.

To ease travel for supporters, Arsenal will provide additional coaches to Everton at a subsidised rate of £10 on 20 December, ensuring fans can attend despite the schedule shift.