Northampton Town call for fans to be allowed back in grounds after O2 arena announces first show in nine months

Northampton Town has joined a growing campaign on social media to get fans back into grounds after the O2 Arena announced today, Tuesday, it was staging concerts again.

Fans have been unable to go to the PTS Academy Stadium since the national lockdown began earlier this year.

Today, O2 Arena tweeted: "We're excited to announce that after 9 months without events, our first socially distanced gig will be held on 5 December 2020 with London band Squeeze."

Football clubs and fans immediately questioned why there was still no movement in letting fans back in grounds.

A spokesperson for Northampton Town said: "We strongly believe that it is possible for clubs to stage matches in front of supporters in outdoor stadiums in a safe, socially distanced way.

“We are delighted that the Government believes it is safe for indoor venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and The O2 Arena to stage events in front of crowds and we believe outdoor football stadiums can do likewise.

“Like many clubs, we have worked closely with our Safety Advisory Group to carefully plan detailed protocols and procedures that will keep supporters safe, and as we saw at the pilot game we took part in at Shrewsbury Town last month, games in front of spectators can be staged safely.

“We hope that – in line with other parts of the entertainment industries that are being allowed to welcome spectators back - supporters will be able to return to matches at the PTS Academy Stadium in the near future.”

Northampton Town Supporters Trust added: "Time those seats had some bums on them! The Government's stance on people being allowed in to cinemas and sports clubs is both inconsistent and illogical. How long before the football pyramid starts to crumble? Action is needed and it is needed quickly."