Premier League clubs are on alert for Just Stop Oil protests opening weekend of the season…with eco-clowns targeting TURNSTILES after causing chaos at Wimbledon and The Ashes
Premier League clubs are alert to the prospect of Just Stop Oil protesters disrupting the opening games of the new season – with turnstiles as potential targets.
Mail Sport understands that football police chiefs have been in touch with the top flight teams ahead of the upcoming campaign to warn them that advance warning of an attack is unlikely.
All local forces are drawing up action plans on how to deal with protests, with a focus on cross-country runners and people who want to cling to objects.
A previous protester used zip ties to cling to a goal post at Everton, but it is clear that concerns have been raised that JSO could target turnstiles and disrupt those trying to make their way into the grounds.
Turnstiles may well prove to be more accessible to the environmental protesters and while they may not be as visible as field invasions or goalposts, they can cause maximum disruption. The prospect of frustrated fans having their entry delayed and then taking matters into their own hands will be taken into account, while clubs have been warned that protesters could also try to block entrances on their grounds.
A protester halted Everton’s game against Newcastle after tying himself to a post – but it’s clear turnstiles are being targeted by JSO protesters
Eco fanatics caused chaos at Wimbledon when they disrupted play during the championships
Earlier this week it was reported that the Premier League is seen as ‘the holy grail’ by JSO. Three activists ran onto the pitch at Lord’s earlier this summer and threw orange powder on the pitch, one of which was apprehended and carried to the boundary by wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow, who was then praised by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
Other sporting events, including the World Snooker Championship, are targeted. last season,
21, was sentenced to six weeks in prison for aggravated offenses during the Everton v Newcastle match at Goodison Park in March.
The UK Football Policing Unit has written to all Premier League teams. They say they currently rate JSO activity as unlikely in the early rounds, but have urged clubs to be wary. Officers say advance warning is unlikely as protests are often conducted by individuals.
Concerns have also been raised about team buses being targeted and JSO members trying to slow down traffic.
Jonny Bairstow carried a JSO demonstrator off the field during the second Ashes Test at Lord’s
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