LONDON: Fans were back inside a Premier League ground as Arsenal welcomed 2,000 supporters into the Emirates for Thursday’s routine 4-1 Europa League win over Rapid Vienna.
The sparse crowd in a 60,000 capacity stadium were well distanced between two stands and in high spirits despite the Gunners’ poor form of late in the English top-flight as fans returned for the first time in 270 days.
“I’m delighted to have fans back they make a huge difference,” said Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta.
“We had 2,000 but they were loud and they were supportive to the team so thanks to them for coming and making the effort.”
Outside the ground before kick-off fans held up a banner reading: “Home at last, Thank you NHS” in tribute to those working on the front line battling coronavirus in the health service.
