CHELSEA fans are vehemently backing calls for safe standing areas to be introduced at Stamford Bridge.
A survey conducted by supporters groups showed more than 96% are in favour of the proposal and believe it will enhance the atmosphere at home games.
More than 4,300 people responded to the survey, conducted between February and April, which was distributed by the groups via Chelsea blogs and fanzines and through leafleting on match days.
As well as more than 96% being in favour of the move at the Bridge, 90% stated they would consider buying tickets for a safe standing area.
Chelsea Supporters Trust said it saw the results as clear support for the introduction of safe standing with rail seating and not a desire to return to terracing.
Supporters’ Trust chairman Tim Rolls said: "We're delighted to see that the results of the safe standing survey are very much in line with those carried out recently at other Premier League clubs and with over 96% of respondents in favour it is clear that a considerable number of Chelsea supporters back the introduction of safe standing at Chelsea.
"The response rate of over 4,300 and the level of interest shown in the Safe Standing Roadshow which several hundred fans attended in April clearly shows that safe standing is seen by supporters as a progressive step that will enhance the atmosphere at games and the match-going experience at Chelsea.
"We call on the Premier League to overtly support the trialling of safe standing in English football and to put pressure on the relevant authorities to allow this to happen."
The survey was conducted jointly by the following Chelsea Supporter blogs, websites, fanzines and podcasts: BlueTinted, CFCnet, cfcuk, Chelsea Daft, Chelsea Fancast, Chelsea Mad, Chelsea Supporters Club, Chelsea Supporters Group, Chelsea Supporters Trust, Famous CFC, Oh Dennis Wise, Plains of Almeria, Rivals, Talk Chelsea, TheChels, The Chelsea Blog, The Chels podcast, The Podding Shed, We Ain't Got No History and Vital Football
