Arsenal vs BATE: Gunners fans complain over ‘unacceptable’ Europa League kick-off time

The Arsenal Supports Trust have contacted UEFA concerning their disapproval at the kick-off time and the club's unwillingness to refund fans unable to attend

The Arsenal Supports Trust have complained over what they deem an “unacceptable” kick-off time for their Europa League clash with BATE.

The Gunners will begin the second leg against the Belarusian side at the Emirates at 5:55pm.

The time has caused uproar amongst fans, many of whom claim they simply cannot attend due to work commmitments.

The AST sent a letter to UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin to voice their concern, as well urging BT Sport to consider joining them.

The likelihood of thousands of empty seats could damage the product, the AST argue.

The group demanded: “Football has to stop putting tv companies ahead of match going fans.”

Moreover, Arsenal were criticised for not sanctioning refunds for fans who cannot attend the game.

The Emirates Stadium is set to have thousands of empty seats (EPA)

The kick-off time was also branded as “not reasonable,” with an all-time low attendance now likely.

The Emirates’ 60,260 capacity could dip below the official lowest attendance of 44,064 from the 2017 League Cup tie vs Doncaster.