Chelsea have accused the football authorities of handing their title rivals an advantage after it was decided to move their fixture with Everton forward by two days.

Chelsea issued a statement on their official website insisting the decision, taken for television purposes, undermines the integrity of the competition.

Chelsea's statement read: "Chelsea is extremely disappointed with the announcement today regarding the Everton fixture.

"We believe the decision to hold the match on Thursday April 17th undermines the sporting integrity of the competition by giving our rivals for the Premier League title an unnecessary competitive advantage at a critical time of the season, with more recovery time from their previous match and preparation time for their next fixture when we have to play two games during the same period.

"Secondly there has been no consideration given to our fans who will be presented with serious travel, work and other issues.

"And lastly, the decision sets a dangerous precedent in changing match days still further when fixture congestion does not exist and when a sensible solution regarding other television matches that weekend was suggested."