Moyes: Fans suffering over switch

Both clubs have objected to the Barclays Premier League match being moved at such short notice to satisfy Sky's demand for live coverage.

"In some ways, this might favour us because we played on Saturday and Chelsea played Wigan on Monday. But it is not that, it is the supporters I feel for because some just can't get to this game," said Moyes.

"We were not expecting to play on a Thursday night, and I am sure Chelsea were not either.

"Neither club were very keen on it. But we are paid handsomely by Sky so we have to accept it. But I hope it does not set a precedent that games are moved very regularly like this, and at the last moment.

"As a supporter, I would not be buying a ticket in such circumstances. We have lots of supporters who travel over from Ireland and they will have booked flights and bought tickets.

"Now they have suddenly been told that has all changed. I feel the clubs have a responsibility to say, 'No, we will not do this. We have supporters we have to answer to'."

Moyes not only has sympathy with Chelsea for having to play twice in four days with the title race approaching a conclusion, he has also spoken up in support of under-fire Blues boss Avram Grant.

"Avram Grant has done a good, steady job. They have a very good squad, you cannot tell who they will play because they can change the team around," said Moyes.

"It is very hard to overhaul Manchester United, they have been doing it at the top for years and years. They are used to it. For a new manager to come in and achieve that sort of success in one swoop is not easy."