Premier League clubs agree to introduce bans for pitch-invading supporters and use of smoke bombs

Premier League clubs have agreed to introduce minimum-length bans for supporters involved in anti-social and criminal behaviour at stadiums.

A Premier League shareholders’ meeting took place on Wednesday, where there was a unanimous agreement for the introduction of the measure.

A statement from the league body read: “Fans caught carrying or activating pyrotechnics or smoke bombs, or entering the pitch without permission, will receive an automatic club ban with a minimum term of one year.

“These bans could also be extended to accompanying parents or guardians of children who take part in such activities.

“This policy is effective immediately and the ban is applicable to both home and away matches.

“The Premier League, The FA and the EFL introduced new measures and stronger sanctions ahead of this season to address fan behaviour issues at matches.”

Last season, several matches in the Premier League and the EFL saw pitch invasions, with some turning ugly amid clashes between fans and club personnel.

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