The Premier League and its clubs have missed fans at their stadiums, so we are delighted to welcome them back in December, albeit in a limited capacity, for the first time since 9 March.
As fans are set to be in attendance at five Premier League stadiums this weekend, we take a look at some of the measures that have been put in place to provide the safest possible environments for all those present.
A maximum of 2,000 supporters, all home fans, will be present for a selection of Matchweek 11 fixtures.
Each club will provide their own Supporter Code of Conduct, to which fans must agree prior to attending the match.
The Code of Conduct will outline the guidelines fans should follow on a matchday to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.
The Codes of Conduct for the clubs welcoming back fans in Matchweek 11 is found here.
What will be different for fans attending?
Prior to a matchday, fans will have first completed a health questionnaire and provided details for Track and Trace purposes.
On arrival, they can expect to have their temperature taken before heading into the designated Supporter Zone.
All stadium stewards will be COVID-trained and on hand to assist supporters with any questions.
Entrance to the stadium's Supporter Zone will be staggered to maintain social-distancing. The Supporter Zone covers all the areas fans are allowed to visit on a matchday.
This will include the fans' seats, the concourse areas fans will use to access their seats or purchase refreshments, hospitality lounges, and the toilets.
The Supporter Zone will be staffed by helpful stewards fully familiar with the COVID-19 protocols required by clubs.
There will be plenty of signs for fans to follow to maintain safe social-distancing at all times, indicating any one-way systems and ensuring fans remain in the Supporter Zone.
Hand-sanitisers will be available on approach to and after turnstiles, with fans encouraged to make use of them regularly.
Socially distanced seats are designated to fans, except for families or household bubbles sat together. Everyone is advised to remain in their allocated seat during the match.
Is it essential to wear face coverings?
All fans aged 11 and over must wear face coverings at all times while in the stadium, with the exception of those who have exemptions.
This includes the period when fans are in their designated seats, before, during or after the match.
Face coverings may only be removed temporarily when eating or drinking.
Can fans celebrate with those around them?
Fans can celebrate but should remain socially distanced from people outside their social bubble. Hugging of other fans and high-fives should be avoided and fans are asked to be respectful to those around them, including avoiding excessive shouting or singing.
Can fans leave their seats and go past people during the match?
Fans will be advised to not circulate unnecessarily and should they need to leave their seat, asked to be considerate of others and avoid face-to-face contact.
There will be signs to help fans ensure gangways are clear before walking.
Fans may be asked to remain in their seats after the final whistle so clubs can stagger their departures.
Where can I find more information?
Clubs who are set to welcome the returns of fans have made available information on what supporters need to do at their stadiums on their websites.
