The Premier League have confirmed that Manchester United's trip to Crystal Palace will be held on Wednesday 18 January.
The game had originally been scheduled to be played in September, but was postponed as a mark of respect following Queen Elizabeth II's death. But with just 10 days notice, league officials have opted to rearrange it for a week on Wednesday.
The decision hands boss Erik ten Hag somewhat of a headache, with the trip to Palace now taking place in the middle of clashes with Manchester City and Arsenal. In a statement, the Premier League apologised for the short notice of the rearrangement.
"After the results of this weekend’s FA Cup third-round ties, a new date for the postponed Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Manchester United at Selhurst Park can now be confirmed," the league said.
"The Palace v Man Utd match will take place on Wednesday 18 January, 20:00 GMT kick-off. The Premier League apologises for the late notice in confirming this fixture and understands supporters’ frustrations.
"While the League endeavours to give greater notice for rescheduling, the unique circumstances around these fixtures mean we were unable to."
It has taken five months for the Premier League to find a suitable spot in which to reschedule the game. Back in September, Premier League chief executive Richard Masters led clubs in postponing games in the days following the Queen's death.
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“We and our clubs would like to pay tribute to Her Majesty’s long and unwavering service to our country. As our longest-serving monarch, she has been an inspiration and leaves behind an incredible legacy following a life of dedication," he said.
“This is a tremendously sad time for not just the nation but also for the millions of people around the world who admired her, and we join together with all those in mourning her passing.”
United still also have to have their home game against Leeds rearranged, after that was also postponed in the aftermath of the Queen's death.
Ten Hag now faces the prospect of playing four games in 12 days, with a Carabao Cup clash against Charlton to come, alongside the matches against City and Arsenal. The United boss has already hinted he will be rotating his squad during the upcoming run.
"First of all it's about that we keep the freshness. There are so many games and I think with one or two players I could see the load was high, so we have to also make sure we get the right balance in load and relaxation," he said.
"And the players keep fresh for the good games that are coming, good challenges. We know when you want to face the big games - City, Arsenal, also Leeds - your physical performance has to be top. Do you want a chance to win those games?
"So that is what we have to work for, that is a responsibility first for the player - what are they doing in their free time to get ready for the next game because they've got to be tough, they've got to be high intensity."
