West Ham’s game against Manchester United at the London Stadium was the first Premier League game to take place in front of 2,000 spectators since the outbreak of coronavirus.
The Chelsea vs Leeds match was also played out with 2,000 spectators in attendance. Additionally, three more games have also already been scheduled in the Premier League before the end of the gameweek with the same number of fans in attendance at each. These are, Tottenham vs Arsenal, Liverpool vs Wolves and Brighton vs Southampton, with all based in Tier 2.
Arsenal had 2,000 spectators in the Emirates for their Europa League clash against Rapid Vienna on Thursday, which was the first time fans had returned to a Premier League ground. Besides that, fans returned at other EFL clubs in midweek including at Wycombe and Luton in the Championship.
Any clubs in Tier 1 would be allowed to admit 4,000 spectators, but there are no professional sides in those few areas. Numerous teams, such as Manchester United and Manchester City, are still unable to have any fans due to being in Tier 3.
Along with the reduced capacities, supporters must wear face coverings in all areas of the stadium and be considerate of those around them when singing and shouting. It is hoped by taking these steps, along with many other mitigations, it will put the Premier League’s clubs in the best possible place to convince Government and the Sports Technology and Innovation Group (STIG) task force that it is ready to be involved in trials with greater capacities than those allowed by the tier system.