In 4 days time, the 2021/2022 Premier League will commence with Arsenal FC hosting newly promoted Brentford F.C at the Emirates Stadium.
In view of the upcoming season, the Premier League and its clubs are looking forward to having full stadiums again and expect that everyone will work together to make matchdays safe during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
To ensure the safety of everyone during matchdays, the Premier League has created matchday protocols in order to achieve this safety.
From the start of the 2021/22 season, match-going fans are to prepare to show they have been fully vaccinated or have received a negative lateral flow test in the previous 48 hours. Fans will be able to do this by obtaining their NHS COVID pass through the NHS app or website link.
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The Premier League have intimated fans that matchday routine is going to be a little different to normal as it is working with clubs to introduce COVID-19 status checks in a staged way so there is the least disruption and maximum safety possible.
This will involve training for stewards and clear guidance for fans before, during and after games.
Initially, in the first few matchdays of the season, supporters can expect the introduction of random spot-checks for ticket holders at some grounds as required processes are established, so clubs and fans are prepared for all match attenders to have their COVID-19 status checked upon arrival, should it become mandatory.
The Premier League and its clubs will continue to follow the latest Government guidance regarding all COVID-19 safety protocols.
Nnamdi Maduakor is a Writer, Investor and Entrepreneur