The English Premier League has rescheduled two December matches to help Arsenal and Crystal Palace cope with a particularly congested calendar.

Arsenal’s away clash with Everton and Crystal Palace’s home game against Leeds United, originally scheduled for 14:00 GMT on Sunday, December 21, will now take place at 20:00 on Saturday, December 20.

The change allows both clubs an extra day of preparation ahead of their EFL Cup quarter-final matches on December 23. The EFL had previously moved the cup tie from December 16, noting that Palace, also competing in the Conference League, would otherwise face three matches within five days.

Even with the adjustment, Palace will still have a demanding schedule, playing two matches in three days. Their Conference League fixture against Finnish side KuPS is set for Thursday, December 18.

Arsenal considered moving their EFL Cup tie to Christmas Eve but decided against it, citing concerns over 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 explained.

To make travel easier for supporters, Arsenal will offer additional coaches to Everton at a subsidised fare of £10 on December 20, ensuring fans can attend despite the revised schedule.