Our supporters always have a major part to play in encouraging the team and creating an exciting atmosphere, and we would like to emphasise to fans their responsibilities in keeping the support positive.

We would also like to remind supporters that across all of English football, to ensure a safe and enjoyable matchday environment for all, there are measures in place and strong sanctions against offenders to tackle anti-social and criminal behaviour such as entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke bombs or pyrotechnics, throwing objects, drug use and discriminatory behaviour.

The club has been made aware of recent incidents where items have been thrown onto the pitch, and, as a reminder, fans should be aware that the throwing of items onto the pitch is strictly prohibited.

At Chelsea we have long had a zero-tolerance approach to these forms of anti-social behaviour. All identified offenders will be reported to the police and prosecution could result in a permanent criminal record, which may affect their employment and education, and could result in a prison sentence.