David de Gea criticises Premier League scheduling as Man United drop points vs Crystal Palace ahead of Arsenal trip

David de Gea has criticised the scheduling of the Premier League fixtures after Manchester United drew with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Wednesday evening.

A last-gasp equaliser from Michael Olise’s superb free-kick prevented Erik ten Hag’s men from 10 wins in a row after Bruno Fernandes opened the scoring in the first half.

United were originally set to play Manchester City, who they beat last weekend, and then Arsenal before this fixture was placed in between after being postponed due to the Queen’s death last year.

Arsenal, however, have a week-long break until they host The Reds at the Emirates on the weekend despite also needing to play an extra fixture.

De Gea was unhappy that Casemiro – who was booked for the fifth time this season and will subsequently miss the fixture against The Gunners – being absent could end up being the difference on Sunday.

“One of our best players cannot play one of the best teams. I don’t understand why we had to play today and they didn’t, that could make the difference on Sunday. He is a big loss for us,” the goalkeeper said.

The Premier League produced an apology when they announced the scheduling of the fixture. Their statement read: “After the results of this weekend’s FA Cup third-round ties, a new date for the postponed Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Manchester United at Selhurst Park can now be confirmed.

“The Palace v Man Utd match will take place on Wednesday January 18, 8pm GMT kick-off. The Premier League apologises for the late notice in confirming this fixture and understands supporters’ frustrations.

“While the League endeavours to give greater notice for rescheduling, the unique circumstances around these fixtures mean we were unable to.”

Ten Hag wants his team to put the negative result behind them and focus on the challenge against the league leaders.

“[The] players have to make sure they are ready for that game, a top game and fantastic to be involved in. We are looking forward now and need to bring the convincement to win it,” added the Dutchman.

On missing out on a tenth win in a row, the United manager said: “It happened. You can’t change it. We’re looking forward. We will make a proper plan against Arsenal.”