Everton have confirmed fans will have to adhere to Covid-19 regulations in order to attend Goodison Park this season, with either proof of both vaccines or a negative test result being produced on arrival.
Everton, like the remaining Premier League clubs, are preparing to open their doors to a full capacity stadium for the first time since March 2020 next weekend, as the current government guidelines mean that there are no laws on social distancing.
However, in order to minimise the risk of catching Covid-19, Everton are asking all fans to have either received both of their Covid-19 vaccines or have taken a lateral flow test 48 hours that produces a negative result 48 hours before kick-off.
The club also insists that fans must be ready to show proof of either on arrival, starting with Everton’s clash against Southampton on August 14th.
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In a statement released on the official website, the Toffees revealed the following changes ahead of welcoming back supporters.
“As part of these measures to maximise safety, minimise the risk of transmission of COVID-19 and follow government guidance and Premier League protocols, fans should be prepared to present, if asked when entering the stadium, their COVID-19 vaccination status or proof of a negative COVID-19 test result within 48 hours of the match.
“Supporters should also bring a face covering to wear when in the stadium, in line with government guidance on gatherings in enclosed places, and should arrive at the stadium in good time.
“All payments inside the stadium will be contactless, to speed movement through concourses and minimise contact at all points of sale.
“The Fan Zone will not be in use for the opening games of the season.
“This is in order for the Club to accommodate additional changing room facilities at the Park End of the stadium for visiting teams as part of Premier League protocols to maintain a bubble for players and staff.
“The Sir Philip Carter Park End will only be accessible via Goodison Road for the Southampton fixture – with the Sir Philip Carter Park End stand open for fans from 75 minutes prior to kick-off.
“The Matchday Hub based at Everton Free School will also not be in operation for the Southampton match.
For the 2021/22 season, the Club has introduced digital Season Tickets as an additional option for stadium entry.”
The Echo reported yesterday that Brighton have also made a negative Covid-19 test or both vaccines mandatory for all fans attending their stadium this season, a decision that will affect Liverpool and Everton fans when they travel to Brighton later in the season.
