The Reasons Behind ITV and BBC’s Decision to Not Broadcast Chelsea vs Aston Villa FA Cup Match Explained
Tonight’s FA Cup fourth-round meeting between Chelsea and Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge will not be shown live on UK television. The Blues are aiming to advance in England’s oldest cup competition, having defeated Preston North End in the previous round. Sitting in the Premier League’s top four, Villa holds 12 more points than Chelsea this season, making them the favorites to claim victory. However, with home advantage, the Blues hope to overcome the tough challenge.
Fulham’s match against Newcastle led to the rescheduling of Chelsea’s game with Villa. Chelsea’s game was moved to Friday due to policing issues, as the two London clubs cannot play at home on the same day. Villa also needs three days of rest ahead of their Premier League fixture against Newcastle.
Four other games have been chosen for UK television coverage. Maidstone United’s trip to Ipswich Town will be shown live on the BBC on Saturday, while Sunday will feature three more fixtures. The first game will be the derby clash between West Bromwich Albion and Wolves on ITV, followed by Liverpool facing Norwich City on the same channel. The final game of the weekend between Newport County and Manchester United will be shown on the BBC.
The matches selected by the BBC will also be available on iPlayer and the BBC Sport website.
