Supporters attending Wednesday’s Premier League Merseyside derby at Goodison (8.15pm GMT) are advised of the following escalation of safety measures.
The new COVID variant ‘Omicron’, first identified in South Africa, is a significant concern.
In line with the strengthening of Government rules, face coverings are now once again compulsory in shops and on public transport, and should be worn over your nose and mouth.
It is really important that fans do not attend the game if they are showing any symptoms of COVID-19, while all close contacts of suspected cases of the new Omicron variant will be required to self-isolate for 10 days, even if fully vaccinated.
Anyone scheduled to fly into the UK for the game from 4am on Tuesday will require a PCR test within 48 hours of arrival and will need to self-isolate until they have a negative result.
Matthew Ashton, Director of Public Health for Liverpool, is urging football fans across Merseyside to ensure they are vaccinated.
He said: “I firstly want to say a huge thanks to fans for the support they have shown our clubs week in, week out during this pandemic – and especially how they have adapted to the COVID-19 measures in place since stadiums re-opened.
“Keeping fans in stadiums is a priority - as we’ve had almost 500 days without them. Our teams play much better being cheered on, and one way to help do this is to get vaccinated.
“If you have not yet had your COVID vaccine, now is the time to get vaccinated without delay. Vaccines are safe and save lives, and will help us all to keep enjoying the football.
“We want everyone to do a rapid COVID test before attending the match – even if you have been fully vaccinated.
“I’m a proud Scouser and derby day is a really big deal. It’s the fixture that fills us all with both nerves and excitement - and every emotion in between - so I want us to enjoy the match, be safe and most importantly look out for each other and our city.”
For information on vaccinations and how you can get yours, click here.
At Goodison Park itself, policing resources will be increased, while COVID spot checks will continue to be ramped up around the perimeter of the stadium on Wednesday, in line with protocols and Premier League guidelines.
Fans are again advised to arrive early due to these checks, with supporters aged 18 or over being prepared to present, if asked when entering the stadium, a valid NHS COVID Pass OR valid alternative proof that they have been fully vaccinated (see FAQs) OR proof that they have registered a negative COVID test in the previous 48 hours.
We strongly recommend that supporters look to upload their vaccination details onto the NHS Covid Pass, as this is likely to become a requirement of entry should the Government adopt their ‘Plan B’ protocols.
For more information about these requirements and matchday spot checks, including fans under 18, click here.
