Sheffield United fans 'comfortable' to return to Bramall Lane amid coronavirus fears

Unitedites have not stepped foot inside their beloved home ground since March 7 when Chris Wilder’s side defeated Norwich City 1-0.

Football in England was suspended just six days later and, although Premier League fixtures resumed in mid-June and the new season has kicked off, fans have not been allowed back into top flight grounds throughout the Covid-19 crisis.

But with several EFL clubs welcoming 1,000 people into games as part of test events in line with Government guidelines at the weekend, we asked Blades fans on Twitter and Facebook if they would feel comfortable being inside a football stadium given the current situation.

Just under 660 people responded to our Twitter poll, which ran for 24 hours over the weekend, with 86.1 per cent saying they would be happy to attend matches and 13.9 per cent claiming they didn’t believe it would be safe.

On Facebook, Tina Keeling wrote: “Pleeeeease - we need to be back. Even if it’s a small number, although pulling names out of a hat is not going to please everyone x.”

Elaine Wilkinson said she also wants to be allowed back in.

“Yes ....we can all wear masks and those who take them off get slung out or fined a grand for our transfer kitty,” she posted.

On Twitter, Shane Robshaw replied: “Those who don’t feel safe, simply stay at home. There’s plenty of streaming sites to watch the matches, let the rest of the fans in.”

But there were words of caution from others, who say they are reluctant to step foot inside a stadium while the virus is spreading within the community.

Michael Rodgers wrote on Twitter: “The ground being outside venue should be less restrictive regulation, but with fans being what they are (me included) how can they be made Covid safe? It would be a nightmare to steward such events. We either adhere to the experts advice or let the virus go.”

And on Facebook, Russell Smith believes it’s impossible for everybody to stay safe.

He posted: “No. Some punters are just thick as. Give it a little more time. What difference does it make?”

However, with a significant rise in cases across the country – including in Sheffield – and more restrictions expected to be announced in the coming days, fans may have to wait a little while longer before seeing their side in action inside a football ground.

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Chris Holt, Football Editor