Liverpool fans first to stand at Premier League game in nearly 30 years
It has been outlawed from the top two divisions since 1994
Liverpool fans will be amongst the stand while watching a Premier League match when they play against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on 2nd January.
The fixture will mark the return of safe standing in the English top-flight since 1994.
Premier League sides Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, as well as Championship side Cardiff City have been approved as the first clubs in the top two tiers of English football to permit standing in almost 30 years.
It is understood Liverpool did not apply to take part in the pilot, because they are already running their own trial with two areas of rail seating at Anfield, which is designed to allow safe standing at particular moments of excitement in a game, rather than throughout.
The Reds will then review their trial at the end of the season.
"Safety is absolutely paramount"
Standing in English football's top two divisions was outlawed following recommendations made in the Taylor Report into the 1989 Hillsborough disaster, which cost 97 Liverpool fans their lives.
Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said: "The time is now right to properly trial safe standing in the Premier League and EFL Championship ahead of a decision on a widespread roll-out.
"Safety is absolutely paramount and the SGSA (Sports Grounds Safety Authority) is working hand-in-glove with the clubs on this.
"Fans deserve different options on how they can enjoy a live match and I will be watching the progress of these trials with interest."
The pilot will be monitored by the independent firm CFE Research, and its findings will be provided to the Government for it to make a decision on a possible wider roll-out of safe standing for next season.
What are the requirements to have safe standing?
Clubs had to apply to be a part of the trail back in October, with the condition that they meet the following criteria before their application for standing areas was approved:
- There must be a code of conduct in place for fans in the licensed standing area.
- Seats with barriers/independent barriers - which must be in both home and away sections - had to be in place before 1 January 2022.
- The seats cannot be locked in the 'up' or 'down' position, allowing fans the option of being able to sit (for example, during breaks in play).
- There must also be one seat/space per person.
- CCTV must be in place and offer full coverage of the licensed standing areas.
- The ground must consult with its safety advisory group about plans for the licensed standing areas.
- The licensed standing areas must not impact the viewing standards or other fans, including disabled fans.
- Briefing and training must be in place for staff and stewards to ensure only relevant ticketholders are admitted to the licensed standing areas.