Chelsea have accused the football authorities of handing their title rivals an advantage after it was decided to move their fixture with Everton forward by two days.

Chelsea issued a statement on their official website insisting the decision, taken for television purposes, undermines the integrity of the competition.

Chelsea's statement read: "Chelsea is extremely disappointed with the announcement today regarding the Everton fixture.

"We believe the decision to hold the match on Thursday April 17 undermines the sporting integrity of the competition by giving our rivals for the Premier League title an unnecessary competitive advantage at a critical time of the season, with more recovery time from their previous match and preparation time for their next fixture when we have to play two games during the same period.

"Secondly there has been no consideration given to our fans who will be presented with serious travel, work and other issues.

"And lastly, the decision sets a dangerous precedent in changing match days still further when fixture congestion does not exist and when a sensible solution regarding other television matches that weekend was suggested.

"Football has benefited greatly from the backing of television and Chelsea as much as anyone else. However this decision is one step too far and we reserve all rights on our position.''

Everton were also left unhappy over the switch which means the game will now be broadcast live on Sky Sports.

A club spokesman said: "The club is disappointed that this fixture has been moved to accomodate live television coverage. Both ourselves and Chelsea were intially approached by the Premier League and asked to make representations outlining any concerns.

"Everton specifically asked the Premier League to consider the impact on our supporters travelling to Goodison Park, their work schedules and other commitments people may have.

"However we were informed today of the decision, despite our representations, that the fixture will be moved. We feel this decision sets an uncomfortable precedent of moving fixtures from a weekend to midweek and whilst we fully support and back our broadcast partners we do hope that common sense prevails in the future and sensible alternatives can be reached."

However, the Premier League defended their decision to move the fixture.

A Premier League spokesman said: "The compilation of the fixture list is a complex procedure which faces enormous pressure from international match and European competition dates, as well as the need to balance the important requirements of the police and our broadcasters.

"We are also required by the European Commission to televise 138 matches per season, which brings its own inevitable pressures.

"Under these difficult circumstances, this date was seen as the fairest that could be achieved.''

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