The Post reported that at the request of the broadcaster Sky Sports, West Ham United's second round of Premier League match against Chelsea will be held in advance until 8 pm local time on August 22, and the match was originally scheduled to start on Saturday, August 23.
It is reported that, given the historical grudges between the two teams, the late game may increase the time fans stay in the bar, thereby increasing the potential risk of violence. However, London police believe they can handle the adjustment and other relevant parties are expected to support the decision. The adjustment of the match time requires the approval of the Safety Advisory Group, which consists of club officials, local governments and emergency services. Given the support of the London Police Department, it should be routine to obtain approval.
Both clubs and Sky Sports declined to comment. A spokesman for the London Police Department said: "We will work closely with partners and clubs to ensure the safety of people participating in London football and will decisively deal with anyone who intends to cause trouble." Last year, the Post disclosed that the Premier League would pay millions of pounds to the police, some believe it was a "sweetness" provided by their clubs to be able to play high-risk matches (such as derby battles) during prime time television broadcasts. The agreement reached at that time was to pay about £7 million in the form of an "unconditional grant", and the source insisted at the time that it was not a "sweetness".