Hammers boss David Moyes has welcomed the return of supporters, albeit just a fraction of those who could be in attendance at the former Olympic Stadium.
Moyes said: “I have to say it has been really strange not having fans – but I don’t know if it will be even stranger having only 2,000 back in a 60,000-seater stadium.
“We just want the supporters back. It is a start and the club have done a really good job in making sure that everything is safe and prepared, as have other clubs because we are fully aware of our responsibilities.
West Ham’s players will perform in front of fans again (Julian Finney/PA)
“Overall, it is great. I’m sure there will be some people disappointed they haven’t got a ticket just now, but there will be others who are really excited to come back to a game.”
Get FourFourTwo Newsletter
The best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.
Visiting boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is also excited to play in front of spectators again, despite no away fans being allowed entry.
“It’ll be great playing in front of fans, we’re looking forward to it,” Solskjaer said.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side will be the visitors at West Ham (Nick Potts/PA)
“Of course we won’t have our fans there but we’ll just have to use the energy or thrive off the home fans and make them quiet hopefully.
“We’re looking forward to it. It’s great to see fans back in a stadium. Of course we want it back in Old Trafford as well and hopefully we’ll get that soon.
“Football is not the same, it’s not been the same, so great (to see some back).”
