Premier League fans return to stadiums to cheer on their clubs for the first time in nine months

PREMIER League football fans were allowed back last night for the first time in nine months.

The first were at West Ham’s 5.30pm kick-off against Manchester United.

Socially distanced West Ham supporters were the first Premier League fans to return

Covid rules meant only 2,000 were allowed in the London Stadium as the city falls under the Government’s Tier 2 restrictions.

They had to wear masks and remain socially distanced.

On arrival, they had to have a temperature check, fill out a medical questionnaire and download the NHS app.

Later, another 2,000 fans were allowed to watch London side Chelsea at home to Leeds.

A young West Ham fan in a mask was able to watch his team in action

Speaking before his team’s 3-1 defeat, West Ham boss David Moyes said: “It’s been really strange not having fans — but I don’t know if it’ll be even stranger having only 2,000 in a 60,000-seater stadium.”

Any clubs in areas that get downgraded to Tier 1 will be allowed to let in 4,000 fans.

But all supporters are still banned in Tier 3 areas.

Chelsea fans were the first back to see their team record a win

Some Chelsea fans brought a banner back to Stamford Bridge

Olivier Giroud celebrated in front of fans after Chelsea’s first goal

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