Chelsea have accused the FA of putting the safety of supporters at risk by deciding to schedule their FA Cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur at 6pm on Sunday, April 15.
Roberto Di Matteo had originally asked for the date of the game to be changed due to its close proximity with their Champions League semi-final first leg three days later.
The FA rejected that plea and have now been sent a strongly-worded letter from Stamford Bridge officials.
The club's rationale is based on a concern that the lateness of the kickoff will allow supporters more time to consume alcohol prior to the game and could lead to crowd violence.
A club spokesman said: "We are bitterly disappointed with the FA's reasoning which appears to put TV considerations ahead of the safety issues and inconvenience to fans."
Chelsea play Wigan Athletic in the Premier League later today.
Written by
Robert Summerscales
Robert Summerscales
