Why is there no 12.30pm kick off in the Premier League this weekend?

THE 2023/24 Premier League season is reaching the business end – and it’s heating up at both ends of the table.

Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal are in an epic three-horse race for the title this campaign.

There will be no 12.30pm kick off in the Premier League this weekendALAMY

Pep Guardiola’s Treble winners make the short trip to bitter rivals Manchester United this weekend, while Jurgen Klopp’s league leaders travel to Nottingham Forest.

Arsenal will be looking to continue their superb form as they go to Bramall Lane to face the Premier League‘s bottom side Sheffield United on Monday Night Football.

At the bottom end of the table, Luton Town host high-flying Aston Villa while Burnley seek a much-needed win against Bournemouth.

But why are no games selected for the Saturday lunchtime slot?

Why is there no 12.30pm kick off in the Premier League this weekend?

TNT Sports are the holders of the Saturday 12.30pm slot in the current deal with the Premier League.

The broadcasting giants have the opportunity to screen 52 live matches divided into the lunchtime slot and midweek evening fixtures.

And TNT has opted NOT to use up any of their games on this weekend’s matches, meaning there will be no 12.30pm kick-off on Saturday.

It’s the second weekend on the bounce that Premier League fans have not had a lunchtime fixture and the third occasion of the season.

The next 12.30pm kick off on TNT Sports will be Manchester United’s clash with Everton on March 9.

FULL Premier League fixture list this weekend

Here are all the fixtures for Gameweek 27:

Saturday March 2

• Brentford v Chelsea – 3pm
• Everton v West Ham – 3pm
• Fulham v Brighton – 3pm
• Newcastle v Wolves – 3pm
• Nottingham Forest v Liverpool – 3pm
• Tottenham v Crystal Palace – 3pm
• Luton Town v Aston Villa – 5.30pm

Sunday March 3

• Burnley v AFC Bournemouth – 1pm
• Man City v Man Utd – 3.30pm

Monday March 4

• Sheffield Utd v Arsenal – 8pm