Share

Strike could spoil London derby

London - Arsenal's Boxing Day derby against London rivals West Ham could be postponed due to the threat of a tube strike in the capital.

London Underground drivers are set to stage three strikes over Bank Holiday pay, with the first planned for December 26 when the Gunners are scheduled to host West Ham at the Emirates Stadium.

With thousands of fans due to travel to the stadium by tube, Arsenal chiefs admitted on Tuesday that the English Premier League fixture may have to be rearranged if the strike goes ahead.

"Arsenal Football Club is currently in discussions with the Premier League, West Ham United, police and relevant authorities over the possible postponement of the Boxing Day fixture at Emirates Stadium, following the announcement that London Underground drivers plan industrial action on that day," a statement on the club's website read.

"The match is in doubt due to the difficulties of getting 60 000 supporters, plus matchday staff and employees to the stadium safely in the advent of disruption to public transport on a public holiday.

"The club will make a further announcement as soon as a final decision is made."

In contrast, QPR's Boxing Day match against West Bromwich Albion at Loftus Road in west London is going ahead, while neighbours Fulham insist they have no plans to cancel their match against Southampton.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
loading... Live
Lions 0
Titans RSA 0
Voting Booth
Should the Proteas pick Faf du Plessis for the T20 World Cup in West Indies and the United States in June?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Faf still has a lot to give ...
50% - 5 votes
No! It's time to move on ...
50% - 5 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE