Brentford vs Chelsea: Full steam ahead for the West London Christmas derby

Based on discussions between Brentford, Chelsea and the EFL, tonight’s Carabao Cup tie at the Brentford Community Stadium is on.

Both Clubs will of course be monitoring the COVID-19 case rates but, as things stand, preparations are in full swing for the game.

After the postponements of the Manchester United and Southampton matches, we are looking forward to facing up against our West London neighbours.

We are expecting a bumper crowd for this game with only a limited number of seats remaining to purchase online for Season Ticket holders and Members.

Fans should arrive at the stadium one hour prior to kick-off as the game will also be the first Brentford fixture where the new COVID rules will be in place which have been designed to keep fans safe and reassure those attending. Fans must follow these four-steps to allow entry into the stadium.

Step 1 – Self-declare your COVID status

All fans aged 18 and over will be required to pre-register their COVID status ahead of the game. This is to declare that they (a) hold a valid NHS COVID Pass or will only attend if they can show a negative lateral flow test result within 48 hours of the game, and (b) will not attend if they have COVID-19 symptoms.

Click here to complete the online Self-Declaration form

Please note - the self-declaration process is mandatory for all fans (18+) but your COVID status may still be checked at the stadium.

Step 2 – Get your NHS Pass

The best way to do this is by downloading the ‘NHS App’ on your smartphone. Log in and select ‘Get your NHS COVID Pass’ from the homepage, then follow instructions from the screen.

Please add your NHS COVID Pass to your smartphone wallet or download it as a PDF before you leave for the game to avoid any connectivity issues at the stadium.

Be aware that the blue vaccination card is no longer acceptable as proof of double vaccination.

Step 3 – Get tested

If you don’t have the NHS COVID Pass, then you must be able to demonstrate a negative lateral flow test result within 48 hours of the start of the game. You should do this by showing an email or a text message from NHS–don’t bring the actual test kit to the stadium. You can register your negative lateral flow test with the NHS here.

We encourage fans of all ages to do a lateral flow test ahead of the game – those who test positive must not attend.

Step 4 – Plan your matchday and arrive early

All adults (18+) will be subject to spot checks at the stadium. Our team will be looking for either an NHS COVID Pass or proof of a negative test result within the last 48 hours. Fans who can’t show either will not be allowed in.

Face coverings must be worn when moving around the stadium, when indoors or in congested areas and at all times when in hospitality areas (except when eating and drinking).

With the game scheduled to kick off at 7.45pm, fans must ensure that they arrive early to get through the COVID checks in good time. You should arrive at least an hour before the game to avoid missing any of the action.