The Premier League has announced seven matches will be played on Boxing Day, reversing a decision from the previous year that drew significant criticism.
This year's festive schedule includes four games kicking off at 3 p.m. on December 26. Earlier in the day, Aston Villa will face Leeds at 12:30 p.m. The evening fixtures will see Hull play Liverpool at 5:30 p.m., followed by Newcastle United hosting Manchester City at 8 p.m.
The following day, December 27, will feature a triple-header on Sky Sports Super Sunday. Chelsea will play Coventry at 2 p.m., Manchester United will host Nottingham Forest at 4:30 p.m., and Crystal Palace will take on reigning champions Arsenal at 7 p.m.
Last season, the Premier League faced widespread backlash for scheduling only one game on Boxing Day, a date traditionally considered one of the most popular on the football calendar. The league's decision to increase the number of fixtures for the upcoming holiday period appears to be a direct response to fan and media dissatisfaction.