Chelsea Boxing Day clash to ahead

Statue of Arsenal Legend Tony Adams is unveiled at Emirates Stadium (Getty Images)

Chelsea have confirmed their home game with Fulham on Boxing Day will go ahead as planned, despite the possibility of industrial action by Tube drivers.

The start of legal action aimed at halting the strike - which could affect several sporting fixtures - in a row over pay was delayed at the High Court today.

London Underground (LU) is challenging the validity of the strike called by the Aslef union's leadership over its claims for additional Boxing Day pay.

A hearing had been set for 10:30am at the High Court in London but was rescheduled for 2pm.

However, before that hearing could take place, Chelsea announced that their game would go ahead regardless.

A statement from the club read: "Following careful consideration, Chelsea Football Club's match against Fulham will take place as planned at 1pm on 26th December.

"Due to the increased difficulty in getting to Stamford Bridge because of the tube strike we wanted to give fans as much notice as possible that the game will go ahead as scheduled.

"The club has examined the implications presented by the planned strike and has consulted with the Local Authority, Metropolitan Police and transport authorities.

"We recognise the duty of care we have to both sets of supporters and are confident we will provide a safe environment for fans to enjoy the local derby.

"We are conscious there were existing and publicised travel restrictions on this day and that many supporters will have made long-standing plans to attend the match over this holiday period.

"Supporters are advised to monitor transport websites and to allow plenty of time for their journeys.

"Buses will be operating a Sunday service throughout London and parking is free in resident/business permit and pay-and-display bays to the south of Hammersmith and Fulham Borough and in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.

"However, supporters are warned that yellow-line restrictions still apply in both boroughs despite it being a Bank Holiday."

Arsenal are considering moving their game with Wolves.

PA