Arsene Wenger speaks out against Christmas Eve fixture

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has admitted that he would rather not play on Christmas Eve amid speculation that his side's clash with Liverpool could be moved to December 24.

The Premier League was reportedly considering switching the match to a 4pm kickoff on Christmas Eve, although chief executive Richard Scudamore has since confirmed that a late start will not happen.

However, Sky is still eager to show a match on December 24, and the prospect of a 12.30pm kickoff has not yet been ruled out.

"I know that we have to adapt to the schedule dictated by the televisions, but overall I would say if that happens personally I think it should not, not any game should be played after 2pm," Wenger told reporters.

"Personally I would prefer to be at my home on Christmas night and celebrate Christmas, but I still feel that could happen if we played early on the day and what you wouldn't like to sacrifice is the evening with the family for people, but overall we go towards society religion isn't considered anymore in any decision and where people want as well to watch football in the Christmas period."

The fixture could still be in doubt due to a possible lack of stewards willing to staff the match on that date.