Oliver Glasner has revealed that Crystal Palace wanted to move their Premier League clash against Arsenal on Wednesday.
The Eagles, who play Aston Villa at Wembley on Saturday in the FA Cup semi-final, have one day fewer to prepare for the clash as Unai Emery’s side played Manchester City on Tuesday night.
Palace’s trip to north London will be broadcast on Sky Sports and was picked for television before being rescheduled.
Glasner said: “We wanted it [moved], but sometimes you shout against the wind. We spoke to them before. I didn’t talk to them. We also would have preferred playing on Tuesday, because it makes a difference having one more day.
“I could never complain about fixtures, but I think it’s not the best choice from the Premier League. Villa play tonight [Tuesday] and we play tomorrow. Fair would be both teams play on the same day, either on Tuesday or on Wednesday.
“At this stage of the season, it can influence if you have two days’ rest or three days’ rest. But we have to accept it, and I’m pretty sure we will be fit on Saturday.”
“Players are in a great shape. The medical team, sports science team, fitness department are doing great work with the players.
“It’s just that when we’re talking about fair play — and England should be, maybe, the role model of fair play — it should be [Villa and Palace playing on] the same day.”
PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD
