Feb 19 • 14:02 UTC 🇬🇧 UK Mirror

Arsenal's Premier League hopes hinge on Sky Sports decision which can 'take its toll'

Arsenal's chances in the Premier League may be significantly affected by the scheduling decisions made by Sky Sports, according to former player Paul Merson.

Arsenal's title aspirations in the Premier League could be intricately tied to the fixture scheduling dictated by Sky Sports and TNT Sports, as emphasized by pundit Paul Merson. The team currently sits at the top of the league table but has recently faced a setback, conceding a late equalizer against bottom-placed Wolves. This result has raised concerns about their ability to maintain their lead, especially with Manchester City lurking closely behind, having a game in hand and a history of overtaking Arsenal in the league standings.

As the season progresses, the pressure on Arsenal intensifies, and with crucial matches potentially being scheduled at unfavorable times, the impact of broadcasting decisions could be a significant factor. The Gunners are likely to have fewer 3pm kick-offs, a slot that is often reserved for lower-profile matches, which might lead to them playing at times that could affect performance due to the nature of fatigue and mental pressure. These factors could challenge their efforts to remain at the top, especially when competing not only against rival teams but also the external pressures from media and fan expectations.

Merson's insights suggest that the unpredictable nature of football scheduling in relation to TV broadcasts could play an unexpected yet critical role in deciding the season's outcome. With Arsenal historically struggling under high-pressure situations, the implications of these scheduling decisions could determine whether they can clinch the Premier League title or succumb to the growing challenges posed by Manchester City and possibly other challengers as the season unfolds. This narrative highlights the multifaceted nature of competitive sports, where external factors intertwine with athletic performance, potentially swaying the results of the prestigious league.

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