Newcastle United fans have been backed by the Football Supporters' Association, as the Premier League made the decision to schedule their Boxing Day clash at Old Trafford for 8pm.

That's despite the clash holding the longest travelling distance for away supporters of all of the gameweek's matches. The Premier League announced earlier this week that just one match will be held on December 26 this season, scrapping a long-standing tradition which usually sees all sides compete.

The league also justified its decision by claiming that the expansion of European competition was behind the move, as they looked to reduce a jam-packed schedule. A statement read: "The Premier League would like to acknowledge the circumstances that have led to a reduced number of matches on Boxing Day this season, impacting an important tradition in English football.

"There are now several challenges to Premier League fixture scheduling rooted in the expansion of European club competitions - which led to a revision of our domestic calendar ahead of last season, including changes to...