Spurs’s stadium delay was originally a PR disaster for Arsenal fans to laugh at. Daniel Levy lying to his own fans, knowing full well their new home wasn’t going to be ready by August. Banter aside, no one would want supporters in an unsafe building just to save their blushes. But as their move date changes from 2018 to 2019 the more it impacts on us.
The North London Derby is scheduled for the 2nd of March with much debate about where the venue will be. Those responsible for it’s construction believe that the club deep down know the new target date of January 12th is not a realistic one. If that’s the case, Man United , like Liverpool and Chelsea will get to avoid having to play a rival at a brand new White Hart Lane. This is where the integrity of the competition gets questioned.
It’s expected to be 4 from 6 to qualify for the Champions League. There might not be too much points difference between 4th and 6th. Given the choice we much rather face them at Wembley then in an environment which will be more hostile, it’s two completely contrasting atmospheres.
Why should some get the comfort of going to the national stadium while others have to overcome new surroundings?
It could be the difference between us finishing above or below Chelsea or even Spurs. In terms of the title race, City watched how Liverpool silenced Spurs in their rented house. The Champions should get the same chance.
It could even have an impact on the relegation picture. It’s those scenarios why the League have long had the regulation that each team should only play at one home stadium before bizarrely undermining their own rule book.
Perhaps board members didn’t want the hassle of arguing with Levy? Out of the goodness of their hearts the Premiership have given Tottenham an inch, now they want to take a mile. There’s even talk of the MK Dons home being a third possibility, which further undermines the fairness of our domestic game.
Surely the time has come for their grand opening to be postponed for the next campaign, no one wins out of this current situation. Paying customers still cannot plan for match days. It won’t be as big a deal being unveiled in March or April and most of all, if the majority of the League gets to face them at Wembley, then we should as well.
Would that be the fair thing to do?
Dan Smith