Fan groups have called for the Manchester City vs Liverpool FA Cup clash to be shifted out of Wembley
According to The Times (Subscription Required), fans of Manchester City and Liverpool are pushing for the FA Cup semi-final clash to be relocated from Wembley considering the railway line closures.
The clash between the two giants is set to take place in Wembley on the 16th or 17th of April as both teams look to claim a spot in the finals of the FA Cup. Both these teams are set to face each other on the 10th of April in the Premier League in what could be a potential title-deciding clash.
The West Coast Main Line between London Euston and Milton Keynes is closed from April 15 to 19. This makes it difficult for the supporters of both the clubs to travel to Wembley and support their club for such a crucial encounter.
Spirit of Shankly, a Liverpool supporters club and 1894, a City fan club, expressed concerns over the fact that the rail lines would be shut and that travelling by road could lead to a lot of congestion during the Easter weekend.
“For Liverpool and City it makes no sense. More than 64,000 travelling supporters will be forced on to the roads”
They went on to suggest that considering the short distance between Merseyside and Manchester, it made sense to shift the clash to somewhere closer. It would certainly be odd to see the game played elsewhere but it may well make sense considering the circumstances.
“City and Liverpool are less than 40 miles apart and there are plenty of grounds big enough far closer than Wembley”
A change in venue possible?
The FA has assured that it would speak to both clubs and the rail chiefs to find a solution to the problem. It would be best if fans could make it to Wembley for the game because the stadium- built for special games like these- truly adds to the occasion with its backdrop and history.
Both sets of supporters will want to be present at the stadium to root for their team in such a prestigious clash and their concerns regarding the travel in the absence of trains is clearly justified.
A Liverpool-City clash is always high-octane with both teams playing with great desire and intensity. Both teams are managed by great coaches who will be looking to outsmart each other and the support from their fans could well be the driving force they need to go the extra mile.
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It remains to be seen what solution the FA come up with but the supporters will be hoping that it reduces their travel burden. The Reds are chasing 3 more trophies after already lifting the Carabao Cup against Chelsea and would be looking to beat Man City and seal their 15th FA Cup final appearance.
