Chelsea’s first home game of the 2020/21 Premier League season will commence this afternoon (Sunday, September 20), as Liverpool visit Stamford Bridge at 4.30pm.

The game will again take place without supporters, with all matches taking place behind closed doors for the time being.Strict protocols have been put in place to ensure that Stamford Bridge is as safe as possible for everybody present. These protocols are to ensure that the first few games of the season can get underway with the least risk possible, without adding any further strain on the NHS and other public services.

In consultation with all relevant stakeholders, the Premier League is considering appropriate arrangements for matches which will take place after 1 October, with the aim being to get fans back into full stadia as soon as possible and safety always being the top priority. The Club will update supporters as and when these arrangements are agreed between stakeholders including the Government.

The club would like to thank its fans for supporting the team safely during this time. Whilst restrictions and guidelines remain in place, it is important that fans continue to support the team safely. By following government and public health guidance, supporters can play their part to keep friends, family, and the local community safe.

In the meantime, all Premier League matches in September will be broadcast live, including Sunday’s visit of Liverpool which kicks-off at 4.30pm (UK time).

Chelsea TV’s matchday programming is also back on The 5th Stand app, Facebook Live and our official YouTube channel with three live shows: pre-match (starting 75 minutes before kick-off), half-time and post-match.

They will include the first reveal of the team news, exclusive interviews and Chelsea-oriented analysis from regulars Joe Flemons and Jason Cundy, plus guests Pat Nevin, Claire Rafferty, Zac Djellab and Savage Dan. During games, The 5th Stand will carry audio commentary and live text updates via our new and improved Match Centre.

Premier League statement

In addition, The Premier League and its clubs met earlier this week to discuss the return of supporters to stadiums.

Safety remains the number one priority and clubs reiterated their commitment to ensuring Premier League stadiums will be among the safest public places, through the effective use of a wide range of mitigation measures.

Clubs will adopt a range of common standards, which will help deliver bio-secure, safe environments for fans across the League, as and when fans are able to return to stadiums.

Stay at home and stay safe

Coronavirus hasn't gone away. It’s really important we still do all we can to protect ourselves and others.

Wash your hands as often as possible, cover your face in public and make space for other people.

If you do show any coronavirus symptoms, get a test. They are free, quick and vital to stop the spread of the virus.