Fans back at the Emirates!

(BUT ONLY TO WATCH GAMES ON THE BOX...)

ARSEnaL fans will be allowed back into the Emirates to watch next week’s Premier League clash with manchester City… but only on screens in stadium restaurants.

the Gunners will show the october 17 game in two separate hospitality areas to 368 fans who can still gather — in groups of no more than six — to watch at their home ground while mikel arteta’s side will be at the Etihad.

the fans must follow a strict code of conduct, which asks them not to sing, shout or cheer loudly. they must also avoid hugging or high-fiving fans who are not in their party. Prices range from £29 to £179.

Even if arsenal win, fans won’t be able to toast victory for long. the stadium will close 30 minutes after the final whistle.

arsenal were preparing to allow supporters to return this month, but the Government’s decision to delay those plans forced them to adapt. now, like several lowerleague clubs, they will allow club members to watch matches together in line with the rules for pubs and restaurants.

In the Dial Square restaurant, adult tickets cost £49 and children aged 16 and under go for £29. they can enjoy pizza and two drinks while watching on big screens. there will also be an opportunity to have a photo with the Community Shield, which arteta’s side won at a deserted Wembley in august.

Fans can also pay £ 169 per person (or book a booth for £179pp) to watch the game in the plush Wm Club restaurant. this includes a three- course meal, a photo opportunity with the Fa Cup and a Q&a with a club legend.

Fans will only be allowed in one hour before kick- off and will be subject to rigorous coronavirus protocols, including temperature checks and test and trace.

If successful, the pilot could be repeated for future games.

Clubs are suffering without matchday revenue. Fans may not return until march, which could cause crippling losses at all levels.

among Premier League clubs, no one relies on matchday revenue more than arsenal. according to figures for the 2018-19 season — by financial analysts Vysyble — nearly a quarter (£96.24million) of arsenal’s total revenue came on game day. But the club insist this is not primarily about money.

they want to show the protocols — many of which would also apply to limited- capacity matches — are fit for purpose.