Portsmouth v Sunderland not among EFL games to be broadcast live over festive period

Pompey fans have been packing out Fratton Park this season Picture: Habibur Rahman

Yesterday the EFL and their broadcasting partner released details ofÂ whichÂ matches will be televised over Christmas and New Year.

Nine games were chosen in total '“Â but all come from the Championship.

That meansÂ the Blues' highly-anticipated clash with the Black Cats on Saturday, December 22 (3pm), will go ahead as planned without a national TV audience.

The game had been seen as a potential mouthwatering clash fit for TV given both side's strong starts to the season.

Pompey sit three points clear at the top of the League One standings with 11 wins and five draws from their 17 league games played to date.

Meanwhile, Sunderland are second with a game in hand on Kenny Jackett's side.

Both sides have clearly set out their stalls for promotion and all eyes will be on Fratton Park three days before Christmas to see who comes out on top.

But it seems some fans may miss out, with the game not chosen as part ofÂ the TV schedule.

Those Pompey fans unlucky not to get a ticket for tomorrow's FA Cup clash with Maidenhead (12.30pm kick off) can watch the game live on BT Sport.