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Sky Sports and BT to continue using artificial crowd noise after return of fans

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

Broadcasters are set to continue to provide fake crowd noise for televised football, despite the return of supporters from Wednesday.

Sky Sports and BT Sport will use a blend of noise from supporters in the ground and artificial crowd noise, which has been part of the viewer experience since matches returned behind closed doors in June.

Under the Government's new coronavirus restrictions, clubs in Tier 2, which includes those in London, can welcome back 2,000 supporters from Wednesday, with Charlton set to be the first in the capital to host fans.

The new system could be used for Arsenal's Europa League game against Rapid Vienna on Thursday night on BT and in their subsequent visit to Tottenham for Sunday's north London derby on Sky, who have offered viewers to chance to turn off the fake noise.

Artificial crowd noise is expected to remain in place until a significant number of fans, roughly 10,000, can return, although the system will remain under review by broadcasters.

Meanwhile, Spurs on Tuesday selected 2,000 supporters from a ballot for Sunday's derby. Fans will be asked to arrive at either 3pm or 3.30pm for the 4.30pm kick-off and complete a health questionnaire before entry into the stadium.