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TV could show two matches at once

Premier League matches could be shown simultaneously as part of the new television rights package which will go out to tender soon and is expected to be agreed in the first three months of 2018

It is one way of dealing with a Premier League commitment to Ofcom to give viewers more choice, although some might regard it as overload and it could well reduce domestic viewing figures. It would be limited to bank holiday and midweek games. Under the existing deal BT and Sky Sports have separate slots to show matches. Champions League matches are shown simultaneously by BT.

The Premier League has just held its bi-annual meeting with the Football Supporters' Federation (FSF) and one topic for discussion was the question of showing live matches on Christmas Eve. The question here is not so much a religious one as what is seen as a new low point in putting the interests of broadcasters over those of match going fans: A new low

The FSF was told that any live game on Christmas Eve would kick off before 4 p.m., but many outer suburban or longer distance train services finish running by late afternoon or early evening. Fans may also have family commitments which they will not be able to get out of.

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