FOOTBALL fans look set to face rail disruptions on the day of an eagerly anticipated FA Cup match between Albion and Crystal Palace.

Rail workers at Southern Railway have announced they will be holding another 24-hour strike over the role of train guards on January 8 as part of a national strike action.

The planned action, announced on Wednesday, is part of a long-running dispute between rail operators and the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union.

A spokesman for Brighton and Hove Albion FC said: “We are aware of the planned strike and are working on it.

“There is nothing else to say at the moment and discussions are to be had.

“We will have to wait until we know what the picture is with disruptions.”

The strike will be the 39th day of action during the dispute and will cause fresh disruption to passengers in the region just days after rail fares increase.

On previous strike days Govia Thameslink Railway, parent company of Southern, has planned to operate 90 per cent of its services.

More details about the disruptions and delays expected as a result of the union’s plans will be revealed to commuters after Christmas Day.

Albion fan Brétt Mendöza tweeted: “What could make Brighton v Palace even worse? A rail strike! Monday January 8 is going to be carnage #bhafc #cpfc.”

Seagull Travel BHAFC tweeted: “Already seeing a spike in demand for #bhafc coach seats for the Palace FA Cup match following news about the RMT rail strike.”

Angie Doll, passenger services director for Southern Railway, said: “This RMT strike action is a blow for fans of Brighton and Crystal Palace.

“The RMT leadership has chosen to call a strike for one of the biggest nights of the season for both clubs.

“Instead of looking forward to the game, thousands of supporters will be concerned about their travel arrangements for the big night.”

Southern said it will try to run as normal a service as possible, including those offered for football fans.

Workers from South Western Railway, Greater Anglia, Merseyrail, Arriva Rail North and the Isle of Wight’s Island Line will also be walking out on January 8, 10 and 12.

RMT general secretary Mick Cash said: “Every single effort that RMT has made to reach negotiated settlements in these separate disputes with the different train operating companies over safe operation and safe staffing has been kicked back in our faces and we are left with no option but to confirm a further phase of industrial action in the New Year.”

The third round FA Cup match will kick off at the Amex at 7.45pm on Monday, January 8.