Who has the most and least gruelling December among Premier League teams?
In December 2023, football fans are gearing up for an intense month of fixtures, with teams facing a rigorous schedule as they juggle commitments across multiple competitions. One team that stands out for its particularly demanding December is Tottenham Hotspur, which will play three matches in just six days. This schedule includes crucial Premier League clashes and the knockout stages of the domestic cups, putting immense pressure on the squad and coaching staff to manage player fatigue and performance levels effectively. The packed calendar is a common theme in English football, especially during the festive season, where teams often find themselves stretched thin as they compete on various fronts.
On the other end of the spectrum is Burnley FC, which enjoys a comparatively light December schedule, playing only two matches throughout the month. This less demanding calendar may provide Burnley with a strategic advantage, allowing them to rest key players and focus on refining their tactics without the burden of frequent matchday commitments. This disparity in scheduling highlights the varying challenges teams face in the Premier League, where fixture congestion can significantly impact a team’s form and fitness. As clubs navigate this busy period, the ability to rotate players and maintain squad depth becomes essential for achieving success across the board, whether in league play or cup competitions.
As the month unfolds, fans will be eagerly watching how these contrasting schedules affect the performance of Tottenham and Burnley. Will Spurs be able to sustain their momentum despite the grueling fixtures, or will fatigue set in, impacting their league standing and cup ambitions? Meanwhile, Burnley will be keen to capitalize on their lighter schedule, potentially using it to gain crucial points that could prove vital in their pursuit of Premier League survival. December promises to be a thrilling month for football enthusiasts, with each match carrying significant implications for teams as they navigate the festive fixture frenzy.
Which team has to play three matches, in three competitions, in six days later this month? And which Premier League team has the least exhausting December schedule? BBC Sport takes a look.
