Southampton fans fume over updated January fixture schedule

A number of Southampton fans have been reacting after the new scheduled kick-off times for their matches in January were confirmed, with the Saints having had all but one match moved to 8pm or later.

The Saints are set to be one of just four clubs who are still allowed to have fans attend Premier League matches after London was moved into Tier 3. That means Southampton fans are among the small number of top-flight supporters who would be affected in terms of travel when it comes to their home fixtures in the New Year if nothing changes before then.

Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side are at home three times in the Premier League in January, with games against Liverpool and Aston Villa kicking off at 8pm, while their other home league match against Arsenal starts slightly later at 8:15pm. Part of the reason for the fixtures being put on so late might be for them to fill the prime-time audience, given how well they are performing.

Southampton are also set to play at 8pm for their FA Cup third round tie against League One Shrewsbury Town on 9 January. Therefore, Hasenhuttl’s side will have to get used to the routine of playing every match late in the day and hope that it does not impact on the momentum they have been building up in any negative way.

Southampton fans react to confirmed January schedule

Many Southampton fans were not too thrilled with the new schedule for their fixtures in January, with one even labelling it as ‘scandalous’. However, one supporter pointed out that they have perhaps been chosen for prime-time slots because of their success on the pitch.

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