Hull v Arsenal: Steve Bruce happy to help Chelsea's Champions League campaign as Arsene Wenger hits out at rescheduling

Wenger was unhappy that broadcasters moved the match to accommodate extra rest for Chelsea but Bruce says he is happy to help any English team in Europe

Steve Bruce has attempted to lift the pressure on his Hull side ahead of their FA Cup final against Arsenal (Getty Images)

Hull manager Steve Bruce believes English football should rally behind its European representatives after his side's clash with Arsenal was put back a day to assist Chelsea.

Jose Mourinho's side were initially due to play Sunderland in a televised fixture on Sunday but, with the away leg of their Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, had that fixture moved forward a day.

As a result Hull versus Arsenal was shifted into the Sunday TV slot, a move that was met with an element of dissatisfaction by Gunners boss Arsene Wenger.

The Frenchman said broadcasting decisions "don't look very rational" and that his side had never been assisted in such a fashion.

But Bruce is happy to do his bit to promote the English game and give Chelsea the best chance of reaching the final.

"I think we should do everything we can to help Chelsea," he said.

"We don't do that often enough. When it gets to this stage we should help the big teams. It's difficult in our league.

Arsenal query Chelsea fixture change

"If we can help Chelsea I have no problems whatsoever and I didn't when they asked me.

"We want Chelsea to get the final, let's give them every opportunity.

"To ask them to play Sunday and Tuesday? Let's give them all the help they can get."

PA