Wigan Athletic statement on fans returning to stadia

The move follows the EFL telling its clubs "the next 48 hours are critical" as discussions continue between sports governing bodies and the government over the return of fans to stadiums.

Following media reports that 1,000 supporters will be able to attend some sporting fixtures this weekend, we wanted to provide some clarity on the current situation for supporters wishing to attend matches at the DW Stadium," the Latics statement read.

"We are working hard to ensure the safe return of supporters to the DW Stadium, however it is important we are thorough in our preparations and ensure that attending a sports fixture at the DW Stadium is as safe as possible in the current environment.

"We are using COVID-19 guidelines and protocols from the government, health authorities and the EFL to create an opportunity for as many as supporters as is deemed safe to enter the DW Stadium in the near future.

"Next week, we will be holding a Safety Advisory Group meeting with key stakeholders, with the hope of confirming a return for supporters in the near future.

"Any matches that include supporter attendance or any potential pilot event would require the approval of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and local authorities based on the safety measures put in place and local statistics in relation to COVID-19.

"Of course, we are all looking forward to the potential return of supporters to the DW Stadium in the near future, however it is vital that in the meantime we continue to follow the rules relating to COVID-19 to ensure that we keep each other safe in these challenging times and to give us the best opportunity of welcoming our supporters back to the DW Stadium as soon as possible.

"We would like to thank our supporters for their continued backing and patience during these difficult times."