The Fratton End with 900 fans, food kiosks with reduced choice - and the promise of safety as Portsmouth supporters return

And Mark Catlin is adamant all 2,000 supporters present at Fratton Park will be kept safe during these coronavirus times.

Not since the 2-2 draw against Fleetwood on March 10 has Pompey’s home welcomed supporters.

However, following a relaxing of government guidelines, three Fratton Park stands will be open to fans against Posh.

In addition to the Fratton End, there will be 900 located in the North Stand and the remaining 200 in the Milton End.

Meanwhile, the South stand will be occupied by players, club officials and staff, and the press.

Pompey’s chief executive told The News: ‘Preparations are in full flow for Saturday.

‘The staff have been brilliant, they have all rolled up their sleeves. They are as excited as we are about getting fans back, even though there’s obviously a lot more work and pressure involved.

‘We all realise what the fans mean to this club. We just can’t wait to get them back in on Saturday.

‘As chief executive, if I felt there was any danger to people attending Fratton Park, ultimately it would be my responsibility and I wouldn't allow the event to take place on Saturday.

‘I am extremely confident we can handle this. That is down to the dedication and hard work of the staff, the emergency services, the council and the SGSA.

‘A lot of people have worked really hard to make sure we can open Saturday with a limited number of fans in a safe, secure environment.

‘I have nothing but praise and admiration for the staff we’ve got here. I am so lucky to have this team.’

A small number of kiosks will be open, serving a ‘limited amount’ of food and drink, with no cash being taken.

Meanwhile, the club are asking supporters to ensure any bags are see-through and no bigger than A4 size, and to hand all balls which enter the stands to stewards rather than throwing them onto the pitch.

Catlin added: ‘The guidance urges no chanting, singing or anything which can potentially spread germs.

‘It’s a very difficult thing to manage. All we ask is supporters is to wear their masks at all times, except when sat in your allocated seat.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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