Arsenal postponed the Boxing Day match because of transport concerns
Arsenal have moved their Premier League match with Wolves back 24 hours to 27 December because of proposed industrial action on the London Underground.
Trade union Aslef has announced strikes that could mean severe disruption to the Tube network on Boxing Day.
An Arsenal statement read: “Paramount concern was always the duty of care towards supporters, and everyone who was planning to attend on Boxing Day.”
Chelsea have confirmed their Boxing Day match with Fulham will still go ahead.
In addition to the proposed industrial action on the Underground on Boxing Day, one of the busiest shopping days of the year in London, no overground trains are due to stop in the capital.
Arsenal also stressed that parking restrictions close to the ground would have still applied.
“This would have caused severe disruption, or at worst, inability for supporters or matchday employees and workers to get to Emirates Stadium,” the statement explained.
“We apologise for the inconvenience this may have caused supporters, but we feel that the right decision has been made based on a duty of care.”
Chelsea have advised supporters to monitor transport websites and local radio stations, and allow plenty of time for their journeys to the west London derby with Fulham, which kicks off at 1300 GMT.
“Buses will be operating a Sunday service throughout London and parking is free in resident/business permit and pay-and-display bays to the south of Hammersmith and Fulham Borough and in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea,” the Chelsea website says.
“However, supporters are warned that yellow-line restrictions still apply in both boroughs despite it being a bank holiday.”