English Premiership
Strike could spoil London derby
2012-12-18 20:20
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.