PLAN TO SAVE BOSSES FROM ABUSIVE FANS

reprimanded. Eventually, Nuno returned to complete his media obligations after the majority of fans had gone home. Fan disruption has been a major concern at top-flight stadiums this season. Post-match interviews have been conducted pitchside since Project Restart due to strict Covid restrictions set by the Premier League. But the return of supporters has created huge difficulties for broadcasters, with fans staying behind to heckle interviewees. Supporters are not required to leave the stadium until an hour after the match, creating difficulties for stewards given they cannot forcibly remove them. But plans seen by Sportsmail show that interviews are now set to return to indoor areas of stadiums. As it stands, only the host broadcaster will be designated a room for interviews. Other broadcasters such as international TV, radio and club media will still be required to carry out their work by the pitch and face disruption. With that in mind, it is proposed clubs have the facility to move the post-match interview area towards the centre of the pitch to avoid interruptions by fans. Issues arising from moving interviews on to the playing surface include stopping staff carrying out maintenance work after the game and restricting space for players to carry out post-match warm-downs.