Nottingham Forest have warned fans to stay off the City Ground pitch ahead of this weekend’s crunch clash with Chelsea.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s side host the Blues on Sunday (4pm kick-off) in a tasty final-day showdown. Both teams are still in contention to finish in the Premier League’s top five and secure Champions League qualification.
Whatever the result, the Reds will conduct a lap of appreciation after the full-time whistle. And the club have reminded supporters of the consequences of entering the pitch at any time, ahead of what is sure to be an emotionally-charged occasion.
In a statement, Forest said: “Ahead of our final home game of the season, Nottingham Forest and the Premier League wish to remind supporters that it is against the law to enter the pitch at any time. We are grateful for your magnificent support this season and our players and staff will conduct a lap of appreciation following the full time whistle.
“Ahead of the final home game of the season against Chelsea on Sunday, supporters are reminded that is a criminal offence to enter the pitch at any time. Supporters entering the pitch at any time will be banned.
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“Whilst endangering players, staff and fellow supporters, previous pitch incursions have also brought football bans, police prosecution and criminal records, as well as club penalties.
We ask fans to continue showing their magnificent support from the stands and help us to protect each other, our Club and the game.
“Please respect this occasion and the wish of the players to thank you all for your support this season. The lap of appreciation will not be possible if there is a pitch incursion, so please respect your fellow fans and the players and keep off the pitch.”
On X, the account @NottsPoliceFootball added: “Let’s try and avoid the club getting fined and fans getting banning orders. As we all work hard and plan for next season, start to renew passports etc it would be really sad to be the one handing the passport in at the police station.”
Ahead of the final round of fixtures, Forest are seventh in the table but are just one point outside of the Champions League places. They are already assured of some form of European football next term, it just remains to be determined in which competition.
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