Reds get way over Rovers date

Liverpool have confirmed their FA Barclaycard Premiership clash with Blackburn will now take place on May 8, the same day Arsenal travel to Manchester United.

The game had originally been scheduled for this Sunday.

But Anfield boss Gerard Houllier felt that handed United and Arsenal, the top two Premiership sides, an advantage.

The Premier League agreed to the switch in principle, but on the proviso that Blackburn were not involved in a relegation fight.

Rovers confirmed their top-flight status with a win over Everton yesterday and the two clubs have agreed an 8pm kick-off at Anfield.

Blackburn boss Graeme Souness said: ‘‘Now we are safe from relegation we are happy to play them anywhere and any time that they want.’’