Aston Villa standing firm in opposition to Tottenham fixture switch

The club has already opposed a request from Spurs to bring the match forward three days from its current May 18 date, allowing them more time to prepare for a possible Europa League final on May 21.

But the final decision rests with the Premier League, who have the power to move the game without Villa’s agreement.

While Villa are relatively confident that won’t happen, due to the short-notice of the requested change, the club have vowed to explore every option available should they find a decision forced upon them.

Chief among their frustrations is the Premier League ignoring their own requests to move fixtures this season to ease congestion around Champions League matches.

Villa are understood to have contacted the league on several occasions asking for games to be moved to allow them either more preparation or recovery time around European nights, only for every one to be rejected.

They believe the league would now show itself to be favouring one club over another should it agree to Tottenham’s request. 

Villa, who are still fighting to finish in the top-five of the Premier League, have pointed out the importance of the fixture to their own season. The disruption to supporters who have already planned travel to the match is another part of their argument against a change.

They have also noted Tottenham are yet to qualify for the Europa League final. Ange Postecoglou’s team will take a 3-1 lead into next Thursday’s semi-final second leg with Bodo/Glimt.

Speaking on Friday, Villa boss Unai Emery refused to be drawn into the debate.

He said: “It doesn't matter for me, I want the best for Tottenham in Europe, but I want to focus on our matches. 

“We are playing them in two weeks, but the Fulham match tomorrow and Bournemouth next week. It doesn't matter for me the day of the match.”