Manchester United lost their Europa League edge over Tottenham as Spurs' trip to Aston Villa has been brought forward.
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Man Utd were set for more recovery timeFixture change snatches away advantageFans target Premier League over new datesFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
United took a commanding step toward the final with a 3-0 victory in the first leg of their semi-final away at Athletic Club. Meanwhile, Tottenham’s 3-1 home win against Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt in their own semi-final has them well positioned to meet United in the final.
AdvertisementGetty Images/GoalTHE BIGGER PICTURE
United were set to play Chelsea on Friday, May 16 – five days before the Europa League final – while Tottenham’s visit to Villa was slated for Sunday, May 18. That two-day advantage was expected to give United more time for recovery and tactical preparation. However, Spurs launched an appeal to the Premier League, asking for their fixture at Villa Park to be brought forward.
WHAT TOTTENHAM SAID
Tottenham confirmed the change on Tuesday morning. The statement revealed: "We can now confirm that our Premier League fixture away to Aston Villa will take place on Friday 16 May, kicking-off at 7.30pm (UK). This match was originally scheduled for Sunday 18 May."
The rescheduling means both clubs will effectively enjoy equal recovery windows before the potential final in Bilbao.
WHAT THE FANS ARE SAYING
Although the decision works in Tottenham’s favour, it hasn’t gone down well with everyone as Villa and United fans voiced their frustrations on social media once the change was officially announced.
@theavfcfaithful wrote: "Corruption."
While @zavalasbitch said: "Last home game being moved again, what about fans wanting to show appreciation but can’t due to the game finishing at a stupid time."
@Booteful_Game wrote: "So we roll over and let them tickle our belly? I feel sorry for the travelling Villa fans and how this could affect the last home game activities."
Meanwhile, a Spurs fan, @MrBlackFootball feared: "If we don’t qualify for the final after this I will die of embarrassment."
Whereas @TomFoins told Villa fans: "You're going to win 11-0, who cares."
