Liverpool supporters better hold off on booking those hotels just yet.

The Reds' trip to Villa Park on Sunday, May 17 hangs in the balance, with the fixture at risk of being moved to Friday night if Aston Villa progress to the Europa League final. What should be a straightforward away day could turn into a logistical headache for thousands of travelling supporters.

The match, already switched to a 12.30pm kick-off for Sky Sports coverage, would be brought forward to Friday, May 15 at 8pm should Villa reach the Europa League showpiece. The reasoning is simple enough - giving Unai Emery's side more preparation time for the final the following Wednesday.

But spare a thought for the Liverpool faithful who've already made their plans. With Villa's Europa League semi-final second leg against Nottingham Forest scheduled for Thursday, May 7, supporters could have just eight days to completely rearrange their travel if they want to make the trip.

Eight days. To change flights, hotel bookings, work arrangements, and everything else that goes into an away day. It's hardly ideal when you're talking about a fixture that could define both clubs' seasons.

This isn't just any old match either. Liverpool head to the Midlands sitting fourth in the table, level on points with Villa but ahead only on goal difference. The stakes couldn't be higher in what promises to be a crucial Champions League qualification battle.

The fixture represents the final television switch of Liverpool's campaign, capping off a season where broadcast schedules have dictated supporter plans time and again. The Reds face Manchester United on Sunday at 3.30pm on Sky Sports, before hosting Chelsea on Saturday, May 9 at 12.30pm on TNT Sports.

Come the final day on Sunday, May 24, all Premier League matches kick off simultaneously at 4pm - though Sky Sports are yet to confirm whether Liverpool's home clash with Brentford will be among those broadcast live.

For now though, it's Villa Park that has everyone's attention. The potential fixture switch highlights the uncomfortable reality of modern football - where European competitions take precedence and supporters are expected to adapt at short notice.

Liverpool fans have shown remarkable loyalty throughout this season, travelling up and down the country as Arne Slot's side have battled for Champions League qualification. The very least they deserve is clarity over when and where their team will be playing.

Whether it's Sunday lunchtime or Friday night, Villa Park promises to be the stage for a pivotal moment in Liverpool's season.