Arsenal, Chelsea aware of tube problems

Arsenal, Chelsea aware of tube problems

Published Dec. 19, 2011 12:00 a.m. ET

Arsenal and Chelsea fear their Boxing Day Premier League clashes against Wolves and Fulham could be under threat due to a planned tube strike.

Arsenal have sold all 60,000 tickets available for the game at the Emirates Stadium, but access to the ground for both supporters and the club's 1,000 matchday employees could be restricted if the planned strikes go ahead.

Drivers have planned a 24-hour walkout on Boxing Day and on three other days over the next two months.

A statement on Arsenal's website read: "We would like to make all supporters aware of the situation surrounding our proposed home match against Wolves on Monday 26th December.

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"The club is fully aware of the proposed industrial action on London Underground on Monday 26th December.

"We are closely monitoring the situation, together with all the relevant agencies, including the Metropolitan Police, Transport for London, London Underground, the FA Premier League, Wolverhampton Wanderers FC and Islington Council.

"The paramount concern to Arsenal Football Club is the duty of care we have towards the Arsenal supporters, Wolverhampton Wanderers supporters, matchday employees and indeed everyone who is planning to attend this match. "Any decisions or developments regarding this match will be immediately communicated on Arsenal.com."

The 2,200 members of trade union Aslef agreed to strike on Boxing Day, January 16, February 3 and 13 in a ballot last week.

That decision is being challenged by London mayor Boris Johnson in the high court and there is hope that an agreement can be reached to prevent the strike.

It is understood Arsenal could put the fixture back by 24 hours if the planned strike goes ahead.

Chelsea are also aware of the possibility of travel disruption for their Boxing Day derby with Fulham in west London.

A statement read: "Chelsea football club would like to make clear that we are consulting with London Transport, the Metropolitan Police and all relevant local authorities regarding our Barclays Premier League fixture with Fulham at Stamford Bridge on December 26.

"At present, a proposed industrial strike on London Underground, combined with the lack of national rail services in operation could make reaching the stadium difficult both for Chelsea and Fulham supporters, as well as matchday staff and employees, all of whose safety and wellbeing remains our primary concern.

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