‘No reason why’: Journalist says Chelsea fans could still attend games even if they’re not season-ticket holders

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ESPN’s James Olley explained that Chelsea might allow non-season ticket holders into Stamford Bridge for free this term.

A large section of Blues supporters were hit with the devasting news yesterday that they will not be able to attend any more home games after Sunday’s match against Newcastle United, unless they possess a season-ticket.

This unfortunate update arrived after it was announced the UK government had sanctioned Roman Abramovich for his affiliation with Vladimir Putin.

Fans paying the price again

All of Abramovich’s assets have since been frozen, with damming consequences on those directly and indirectly involved.

Anything that can provide an income to the Russian from his now exiled resources has been shut down, for example, the sale of tickets to games.

Only those in possession of a season-ticket can make the journey to Stamford Bridge, with the final date for all followers to come together being this weekend.

As Chelsea’s stadium is not solely filled by those who bought a package before the campaign began, they are facing the scenario of playing in front of half-empty stadiums again.

A situation they dealt with for over a year whilst the pandemic ensued across the globe.

Get the Bridge bouncing again

However, Olley suggested that the Blues might try to tackle this by offering out tickets without a price to ensure a full-capacity crowd each week.

“I think it’s something they’ll look to explore. Theoretically, there’s no reason why they can’t,” he said.

“The whole reason why this is happening is, technically, if they are generating money from ticket sales that money could be taken directly to the owner and therefore, he could profit from it.

“As an asset being frozen from the UK government, they (Abramovich) can’t generate money in that way.

“So, obviously they (Abramovich) wouldn’t generate income through free tickets but then you open yourself up to the issue of: do you give them (fans) free food? Free drinks? How do you process the catering side of it?

“But I think it’s one of many things they are looking at the moment. You cannot underestimate how much this has taken everybody by surprise.”

Whilst this act of kindness isn’t an ultimate solution to Chelsea’s overriding issues, it would certainly help involve the fans in the uncertain world they are now living in.

The players will surely support having the full noise of the Bridge behind them, rather than a smaller choir.

Make it happen, Chelsea!

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