Chelsea were today at the centre of another fixture row with Sky Television and the Premier League after their penultimate match of the season against Newcastle was put back 48 hours to May 5.

It comes two weeks after Chelsea reacted furiously to Sky moving their match against Everton forward 48 hours to Thursday, April 17, which is just three days after they face Wigan.

Manchester United will get two days' more rest before their final game of the campaign at Wigan as they play West Ham at lunchtime on the Saturday, with Chelsea playing two days later on the Bank Holiday Monday, with kick-off at 4pm.

A Chelsea statement said: "The decision has been taken by the Premier League and Sky Television.

"Chelsea would like to make it clear that we opposed this particular switch as it makes it difficult for our supporters to make reasonable travel arrangements, more so as this is a Bank Holiday."

A Premier League spokesman said: "There are numerous factors taken into account.

"We try to ensure as much notice is given to the fans as possible."