GUNNERS MAKING STRIDES TO BRING BACK THEIR FANS

ARSENAL have assured supporters they are ready to take major safety steps to get them back into stadiums.

The Gunners will set up a new ticketing system with strict rules about buying online so identity checks can be made and purchases will be electronic, cutting out any risk from tickets being handled.

They are also ready to check the temperature of every spectator entering the Emirates to help with the push to get supporters back into football grounds.

Arsenal are losing £2million a game in gate receipts and, before the Government’s U-turn, had been hopeful of getting between 15,000 to 20,000 fans through the turnstiles.

The north Londoners are among a number of top-flight clubs calling for fans to be allowed back in again, with Premier League bosses lobbying Government to support them.

With about 45,000 season ticket holders and one of the highest match-day revenues in the Premier League, they know the importance of supporters to generate funds and an atmosphere.

In a letter to fans last week, the club said: “It is vital we all play our part in decreasing the COVID-19 infection rate. However, we are disappointed that plans for clubs to safely welcome fans back to football stadia from 1 October 2020 have been put on hold.

“We are fully supportive of the Premier League’s position which outlines our belief that through the measures developed with scientific experts and agreed by the Government’s Sports Grounds Safety Authority, fans in stadiums can be accommodated safely.

“We have invested in all the necessary equipment and technology to ensure we can create a COVID secure environment and have worked very hard to implement the necessary safety measures. In addition, we are prepared to support track and trace through ticket validation and identity checks, fully contactless ticketing and temperature testing for all fans attending matches.

“Ultimately the health and safety of everyone is our top priority and we will continue to work hard with the relevant authorities to ensure we can welcome you back as soon as possible. We will communicate further information as soon as we have clarity on the return of fans.

“Everyone at Arsenal is grateful for your continued patience and support. Matches are simply not the same without you and we hope to welcome you back to Emirates Stadium soon.”